luminaries
[loo-muh-ner-eez]
nounpl: luminaries (already plural; singular: luminary)
luminárias
1. Persons of prominence or brilliant achievement in a particular field; famous and respected individuals
The conference attracted luminaries from the world of science and technology.
A conferência atraiu luminárias do mundo da ciência e tecnologia.
2. Sources of light or illumination, particularly celestial bodies
The stars are the luminaries of the night sky.
As estrelas são as luminárias do céu noturno.
3. Lamps or light fixtures, especially decorative ones
The street was decorated with paper luminaries during the festival.
A rua foi decorada com luminárias de papel durante a festa.
In American English, 'luminaries' commonly refers to influential and celebrated individuals in academia, arts, business, and politics. In Brazil and Portugal, the term maintains this meaning while also retaining its literal sense of light sources, particularly referring to decorative paper lanterns used in celebrations and festivals. The term carries an air of prestige and respect when used to describe people.
NYC Slang
big shots; heavy hitters; VIPs
Related Idioms & Phrases
luminaries of the age - as figuras mais destacadas da época
shining luminaries - personalidades brilhantes
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