An illuminated letter is a decorated letter, usually the first letter of a page or paragraph, in a manuscript or book. The term "illuminated" comes from the Latin word illuminare, which means "lighted up". The letters are often enlarged, in color, and decorated with gold leaf or powder to reflect light and make them appear to glow. Other materials that might be used to decorate illuminated letters include semi-precious stones, such as lapis lazuli, and images of animals, plants, and mythological creatures.