Iridescence (noun)

Iridescence refers to the property of certain surfaces that appear to change color as the angle of view or the angle of illumination changes.

Origin:

The word iridescence is derived from the word "iris" meaning "rainbow" and "escent" meaning "having the quality of".

Examples:

1. The iridescence of a soap bubble is caused by the interference of light.
2. The iridescence of a peacock's feathers is caused by the microscopic structure of the feathers.
3. The iridescence of a CD or DVD is caused by the interference of light reflecting off of the multiple layers of the disc.
4. Iridescence is seen in some insects wings and bird feathers.
5. Iridescence is also seen in some minerals and crystals, like labradorite.