Gloss: meaning, definitions and examples

Gloss is often used when talking about a smooth, shiny surface, especially for paints, paper, and cosmetics.

• The paint had a high gloss finish
• The magazine pages have a nice gloss

Shine is the most general term among these and can be used to describe any surface that reflects light brightly, including figurative use such as someone excelling.

• The sun shines brightly
• She shines in her new role at work

Sheen generally indicates a soft, glowing light, often used to describe surfaces like hair, fabric, or water.

• Her hair had a healthy sheen
• The car's paint had a beautiful sheen after waxing

Luster is commonly associated with the gentle sheen or soft glow, often used in contexts such as jewelry, metals, and fabrics.

• The luster of the silk was exquisite
• Gold has a natural luster

Polish typically refers to the act of making something smooth and shiny as well as the state of being shiny due to cleaning or rubbing. It can also imply a high level of refinement.

• He polished the silverware until it gleamed
• The marble floors had a high polish

Often used in the context of providing a brief description or explanation, typically for a word or phrase. It might be used in educational or literary settings.

• She included a gloss for each difficult term in the passage.
• The dictionary offered a quick gloss of the term 'ephemeral'.

Applies to a detailed account that makes an idea, concept, or situation clear. It often involves describing something in depth to help others understand.

• The teacher's explanation of the scientific theory helped the students grasp the concept.
• He offered a thorough explanation for his behavior at the party.

Used when explaining the meaning of something based on one's understanding or perspective. This term is often used in relation to art, literature, or complex texts.

• Her interpretation of the poem gave it an entirely different meaning.
• The lawyer's interpretation of the law differed from that of the judge.

Used when there is a need to make a statement, situation, or idea clear or easier to understand, especially if it previously caused confusion.

• After the meeting, he sent an email for further clarification of the new policy.
• She asked for clarification on the instructions because they were not clear.