lúcido

Lúcido is an adjective used in Spanish and Portuguese to describe something that is clear, bright, or easy to understand, or a person who is mentally awake, coherent, and aware. In everyday language it can refer to both ideas and perception, as in a clear argument or a lucid moment.

Etymology and scope: the term derives from the Latin lucidus, meaning “clear” or “bright.” It is closely related to the English word lucid and shares cognates in other Romance languages. The form is lúcido in masculine and lúcida in feminine, with plural lúcidos or lúcidas, depending on gender and language rules.

Usage in different domains: in medical and psychological contexts, estar lúcido means that a person is conscious and mentally coherent, capable of understanding and replying sensibly. In philosophy, literature, or rhetoric, a pensamiento, argumento, or exposición can be described as lúcido when it is well reasoned and easily understood. The word also appears in cultural and everyday expressions to emphasize clarity, insight, or awareness.

Onomastics and cultural notes: Lúcido may occur as a given name or surname in Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking regions, though it is relatively uncommon. Its use as a name reflects the favorable qualities the term conveys, such as clarity and discernment.

See also: lucid, lucidez, lucidez (noun), lúcida/o. These related terms share the core idea of mental clarity and perceptual coherence across languages.