1. Emitting light as a result of being heated.
This is the most common meaning, referring to objects that glow brightly because of their high temperature. For example:
* Incandescent light bulb: A light bulb that produces light by heating a filament until it glows.
* Incandescent stars: Stars that emit light and heat due to nuclear fusion reactions in their cores.
2. Shining brightly with intense emotion or feeling.
This meaning is more metaphorical and relates to a strong and passionate feeling, often expressed through a strong outward display.
For example:
* "Her eyes were incandescent with anger."
* "The speaker's words were incandescent with passion."
So, depending on the context, "incandescent" can refer to something physically glowing or something shining with strong emotion.