Glittering: meaning, definitions and examples

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glittering

 

[ ˈɡlɪtərɪŋ ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

shiny

Shining with a sparkling light, glinting, shimmering.

Synonyms

glistening, shiny, sparkling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glittering

This is a repetition of the first word and its details have been already provided.

sparkling

Use this term when describing something that reflects light in many small flashes, often conveying energy or vibrancy. It's commonly used to describe drinks, clean water, or personality traits.

  • The sparkling water looked inviting on a hot day.
  • She has a sparkling personality that lights up the room.
shiny

This is a general term for something that reflects light and appears bright. It can be used in a wide range of contexts and has a more neutral tone.

  • She wore shiny shoes to the party.
  • The car's surface was polished to a shiny finish.
glistening

This word is best used to describe something that is wet or oily and shines because it reflects light. It often conveys a sense of freshness or cleanliness.

  • The glistening leaves were covered in morning dew.
  • Her glistening skin shone after the swim.

Examples of usage

  • The glittering chandelier illuminated the ballroom.
  • Her dress was covered in glittering sequins.
Context #2 | Verb

sparkling

To shine with a bright, shimmering, reflected light.

Synonyms

glisten, shine, sparkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glittering

Best used to describe something that shines with a sparkling light, often in a luxurious or showy way. It can be used for objects and settings that are impressive or desirable.

  • The ballroom was full of glittering chandeliers.
  • She wore a glittering diamond necklace.
sparkle

Typically used to describe something that emits small flashes of light or gives off a lively, bright appearance. Often used for things that are visually delightful or exciting.

  • Her eyes sparkled with excitement.
  • The snow sparkled in the sunlight.
shine

A general term for emitting or reflecting light. It can describe anything from a bright light source to a polished surface.

  • The sun shines brightly on a clear day.
  • He polished his shoes until they shone.
glisten

Used to describe something that shines with a soft or wet light, often referring to light reflected off wet or smooth surfaces.

  • The morning dew made the grass glisten.
  • Her eyes began to glisten with tears.

Examples of usage

  • The stars glittered in the night sky.
  • The sunlight glittered on the water.

Translations

Translations of the word "glittering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brilhante

🇮🇳 चमकता हुआ

🇩🇪 glänzend

🇮🇩 berkilauan

🇺🇦 блискучий

🇵🇱 błyszczący

🇯🇵 輝く (kagayaku)

🇫🇷 scintillant

🇪🇸 brillante

🇹🇷 parıldayan

🇰🇷 반짝이는 (banjjakineun)

🇸🇦 لامع

🇨🇿 třpytivý

🇸🇰 trblietavý

🇨🇳 闪闪发光的 (shǎn shǎn fā guāng de)

🇸🇮 bleščeč

🇮🇸 glitrandi

🇰🇿 жарқыраған

🇬🇪 ბრწყინვალე (brtsqinvale)

🇦🇿 parıldayan

🇲🇽 brillante

Etymology

The word 'glittering' originates from Middle English 'gliteren', which is akin to Old Norse 'glitra'. The use of 'glittering' to describe something shiny or sparkling can be traced back to the 14th century. Over time, the word has maintained its association with brightness and a striking visual appearance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,107, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.