Irisation refers to the rainbow-like colors that appear on the surface of an object, caused by the diffraction or interference of light. Synonyms for irisation include shimmer, glimmer, luster, sheen, iridescence, and opalescence. These words are often used to describe the shining, luminous effects produced by certain materials or substances, such as oil on water or mother-of-pearl. Iridescence and opalescence, in particular, are commonly employed when discussing the play of colors seen in gemstones, feathers, and other natural phenomena. Whether describing the iridescence of a soap bubble or the opalescent quality of a shell, these synonyms offer a range of colorful ways to capture the beauty of irisation.