Lustred Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Add to dictionary

lustred

[ˈlʌstəd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

shine brightly

Lustred is the past tense of the verb 'lustre,' which means to shine or glow with a soft light. This term is often used to describe a surface or object that reflects light in a way that gives it an appealing, shiny quality. Lustred can also imply a certain depth and richness to the shine, as seen in polished metals or rich fabrics. The term captures not just brightness but also a sense of warmth and allure.

Synonyms

gleamed, glimmered, shone.

Examples of usage

  • The silver necklace lustred in the sunlight.
  • Her hair lustred with health after the treatments.
  • The freshly polished floor lustred beautifully.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art & Design

  • Artists often use the term to describe surfaces that catch the light beautifully, enhancing the visual appeal of paintings.
  • In ceramics, lustred glazes can create mesmerizing patterns that shift colors under different lighting.
  • Historically, lustreware is a type of pottery that has a metallic glaze, giving it a distinctive shimmering effect.

Science

  • In optics, lustre can describe how light interacts with a surface, including properties like glossiness and sheen.
  • Materials that display lustre can be categorized into metallic, vitreous, and silky, depending on their reflective qualities.
  • Minerals are often described using this term to help identify their appearance, which can include metallic or pearly finishes.

Literature

  • In poetry, lustre is often used metaphorically to describe qualities like beauty or radiance, enhancing emotional impact.
  • Classic literature frequently portrays characters or settings as 'lustrous' to evoke majesty or allure.
  • Romantic writers often associated natural phenomena like moonlight or starshine with lustre, deepening themes of love and longing.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, shiny objects are seen as symbols of wealth and success, often used in jewelry and adornments.
  • Festivals around the world celebrate light, where lustrous decorations play a key role, reflecting joy and vibrancy.
  • In religion, lustre can imply divine beauty or purity, often described in texts or sacred art.

Origin of 'lustred'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'lustre' comes from the Latin word 'lustrare', meaning 'to illuminate' or 'to make bright'.
  • It’s been in use since the 14th century, where it described the quality of light reflecting from objects.
  • In the UK, 'lustre' is the standard spelling, while 'luster' is more common in American English.

The word 'lustre' originates from the Latin word 'lustrare,' which means 'to illuminate' or 'to make bright.' This Latin term is derived from 'luceo,' meaning 'to shine' or 'glow.' Over time, 'lustre' made its way into Middle English from the Old French term 'lustre,' which retained similar meanings related to light and brightness. In English, the term has evolved to not only refer to a shine or glow but also has taken on a connotation of beauty and desirability. It is commonly used in the context of various materials, such as metals, fabrics, and even celestial bodies, emphasizing the aesthetic and attractive quality of the shine.