afterglow

noun

af·​ter·​glow ˈaf-tər-ˌglō 

1

: a glow remaining where a light has disappeared

2

: a pleasant effect or feeling that lingers after something is done, experienced, or achieved

basking in the afterglow of success

Examples of afterglow in a Sentence

the afterglow of the sunset

Recent Examples on the Web

His decision will be made in the afterglow of sweeping wins by Republicans in November under the leadership of President-elect Donald Trump, but a poor choice could also help Democrats reclaim a place in Ohio's Senate delegation when the seat comes up for reelection in less than two years. —CBS News, 22 Nov. 2024

For a club with their ambitions, the need for reinforcements should not be obscured within the warm afterglow of starting the season with back-to-back victories. —Daniel Taylor, The Athletic, 25 Aug. 2024

But last night, in the afterglow of her (alleged) nuptials, Del Rey gave us a taste of her bridal-adjacent style. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2024

Sure, Bill and Jo are happy now, in the afterglow of tornado chasing. —Katla McGlynn, Vulture, 17 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

after- + glow entry 2

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

afterglow

noun

af·​ter·​glow -ˌglō 

1

: a glow remaining (as in the sky after sunsets) where a light has disappeared

2

: a pleasant feeling that lingers after something is done, experienced, or achieved

the afterglow of success