color temperature

noun

: the temperature at which a blackbody emits radiant energy competent to evoke a color the same as that evoked by radiant energy from a given source (such as a lamp)

Examples of color temperature in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The sconce features adjustable brightness levels and color temperatures, as well as up to 20 hours of brightness on a single USB-C charge. Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026 Stained glass doesn’t technically change a bulb’s color temperature. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Aug. 2026 The most common outdoor lighting mistakes are using too many bright fixtures, mixing color temperatures and leaving lights running when nobody is around. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Aug. 2026 And look at the number of kelvins to gauge a bulb’s color temperature. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for color temperature

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of color temperature was in 1916

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Cite this Entry

“Color temperature.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/color%20temperature. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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