λάμπω
lámpo/ˈlam.bo/
The English phrase 'shine' can be translated into Greek using λάμπω (lámpo) or ακτινοβολώ.
Meaning: to emit light (verb)
Ways to say it
| Greek | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| λάμπω | lámpo | /ˈlam.bo/ |
| ακτινοβολώ | aktinovoló | /a.kti.no.voˈlo/ |
Both words describe the act of emitting light, but they are used in different contexts.
Which one should you use?
λάμπω is used for general shining or glowing, such as a lamp or a bright light. In contrast, ακτινοβολώ is more technical and specifically refers to the emission of rays or radiation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form λάμπω is the first-person singular present indicative form, meaning 'I shine'.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of λάμπω is /ˈlam.bo/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The word λάμπω is the direct ancestor of the English word 'lamp', sharing the same ancient root.
- The word ακτινοβολώ is used in modern Greek to describe both a shining sun and the emission of nuclear radiation.
- In Ancient Greek literature, λάμπω was frequently used to describe the 'shining' armor of heroes to signify their divine favor or status.
Examples in context
- Η λάμψη του ηλίου φωτίζει τον δρόμο.The shine of the sun illuminates the road.
- Το φεγγάρι φέγγει απαλά στον ουρανό.The moon shines softly in the sky.
Example conversation
Nikos and Anastasia are looking at the night sky.
- Νίκος NikosΚοίτα τη σελήνη, λάμπει σήμερα!Koíta ti selíni, lámpei símera!Look at the moon, it is shining today!
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΝαι, είναι πραγματικά πανέμορφη.Nai, eínai pragmatiká panémorfi.Yes, it is truly beautiful.
- Νίκος NikosΛάμπω από χαρά που είμαστε εδώ.Lámbo apó chará pou eímaste edó.I am beaming with joy that we are here.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΚι εγώ είμαι πολύ χαρούμενη, Νίκο.Ki egó eímai polý charoúmeni, Níko.I am very happy too, Nikos.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “shine” translations and entries λάμπω, ακτινοβολώ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries λάμπω, CC BY-SA 4.0.
