Glossy: meaning, definitions and examples

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glossy

 

[ ˈɡlɒsi ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

shiny

Having a smooth, shiny, reflective surface. Glossy surfaces are often smooth and sleek, reflecting light in a way that makes them appear shiny.

Synonyms

polished, shiny, sleek.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glossy

Use to describe something with a smooth, shiny surface, often used for printed materials and photographs.

  • The magazine had glossy pages filled with vibrant images
  • Her hair looked glossy and well-maintained
shiny

Describe something that reflects light easily, often used for objects that are bright and noticeable.

  • The car had a shiny new paint job
  • She wore shiny silver shoes that caught everyone's attention
polished

Refer to something that has been made smooth and shiny through rubbing or chemical treatment. This can also imply refinement or sophistication.

  • The marble floor was polished to a high sheen
  • His polished manners impressed everyone at the dinner party
sleek

Typically used to describe something smooth and elegant, often with an implication of modern style or efficiency.

  • The new smartphone had a sleek design
  • He showed off his sleek, expensive sports car

Examples of usage

  • The car had a glossy finish that sparkled in the sunlight.
  • Her glossy hair caught the attention of everyone in the room.
Context #2 | Noun

magazine

A magazine printed on shiny, coated paper with high-quality images and articles. Glossy magazines are often associated with fashion, lifestyle, and celebrity gossip.

Synonyms

magazine, periodical, publication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glossy

Best used to describe a high-quality, shiny finish or appearance. Often used when referring to printed materials or surfaces.

  • The glossy cover of the book caught my attention
  • She prefers glossy photos for her album
magazine

Refers to a regularly published collection of articles and images, typically focused on specific topics like fashion, technology, or lifestyle.

  • I read the latest fashion magazine on my flight
  • She subscribes to a cooking magazine
publication

A broad term that refers to any content that is printed or digitally distributed, including books, newspapers, magazines, reports, and more.

  • His latest publication is a groundbreaking study on climate change
  • The announcement appeared in several publications
periodical

A more formal term for a publication issued at regular intervals, which can include magazines, journals, and newsletters.

  • The library has a good collection of periodicals
  • Scholars often rely on periodicals for current research

Examples of usage

  • She enjoyed flipping through glossy magazines to keep up with the latest trends.
  • The glossy featured a spread on the upcoming fashion trends.

Translations

Translations of the word "glossy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brilhante

🇮🇳 चमकदार

🇩🇪 glänzend

🇮🇩 mengkilap

🇺🇦 глянцевий

🇵🇱 błyszczący

🇯🇵 光沢のある

🇫🇷 brillant

🇪🇸 brillante

🇹🇷 parlak

🇰🇷 빛나는

🇸🇦 لامع

🇨🇿 lesklý

🇸🇰 lesklý

🇨🇳 光滑的

🇸🇮 sijajen

🇮🇸 gljáandi

🇰🇿 жылтыр

🇬🇪 ბრწყინვალე

🇦🇿 parlaq

🇲🇽 brillante

Etymology

The word 'glossy' originated from the Middle English word 'glos', meaning 'brightness' or 'splendor'. It first appeared in the 14th century to describe a shiny or reflective surface. Over time, 'glossy' evolved to also refer to high-quality magazines printed on glossy paper, known for their vibrant images and content.

See also: gloss, glossary, glossier, glossiness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,036, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.