lux
[ˈɫuːks]
lux is the Latin word for the derived unit of illuminance.
lux refers to the unit of illuminance. The term is also used in the phrase lux aeterna, which translates to eternal light and is a phrase found in Christian Latin.
Meaning: the derived unit of illuminance (noun)
When do people say it?
The phrase lux aeterna translates to eternal light and is a phrase found in Christian Latin.
Did you know?
- In Latin, there is a distinction between lux (the light of day) and lumen (the source of light or a beam). English usually uses 'light' for both concepts.
- The Latin lux is a distant cousin of the English word 'light'. Both descend from the Proto-Indo-European root *lewk-, which meant to shine.
- While lux refers to the light itself, the Latin word lucidus (from the same root) describes something that is clear or transparent, like glass.
Examples in context
- In lumine lumen est.In light, there is light.
- Solis claritas nos invitat.The brightness of the sun invites us.
- Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux aeterna luceat eis.Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Example conversation
Julia and Lucius are measuring light in a laboratory.
- JuliaLuci, visne hanc lux mensurare?Lucius, do you want to measure this lux?
- LuciusIta, Julia. Ubi est instrumentum?Yes, Julia. Where is the instrument?
- JuliaEcce instrumentum in mensa.Here is the instrument on the table.
- LuciusHoc instrumentum lux recte numerat.This instrument counts the lux correctly.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry lux, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lux, CC BY-SA 4.0.
