ray
When referring to light, "ray" is a countable noun. You will often see it used in the plural ("rays of sunshine") to describe general brightness. In biology, "ray" refers specifically to flat fish or spine-like structures. In these contexts, it is always a countable noun. As a verb, "ray" is less common than as a noun. When describing someone's expression (e.g., "rayed with joy"), it is almost always used in the intransitive form.
💬Casual Conversation
Yo, this one ray of sun is hitting my screen and I can't see a thing.
Close the blinds or just quit. I'm not walking over there.
Meanings
A narrow beam of light or other radiation emanating from a point source.
"A single ray of sunlight pierced through the thick clouds."
Any of various cartilaginous fishes with flattened bodies and wing-like pectoral fins.
"The manta ray glided gracefully across the sandy ocean floor."
A line or spine radiating from a central point, such as on a starfish or a wheel.
"The biologist examined the delicate ray of the sea urchin's spine."
To emit beams of light; to radiate.
"The sun rays its warmth upon the valley below."
To shine or glow with a particular expression or quality.
"Her face rayed with happiness when she saw her newborn son."