Shimmering: meaning, definitions and examples

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shimmering

[ˈʃɪmərɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

sparkling

Shimmering means shining with a soft, slightly wavering light. It is often used to describe something that glows or glistens in a gentle, undulating way.

Synonyms

glistening, glowing, sparkling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shimmering	Shimmering is often used to describe a soft, wavering light that seems to move or tremble. It can be used for water, fabrics, or surfaces that reflect light in a subtle way. The shimmering water of the lake looked magical under the moonlight. Her dress had a shimmering effect, reflecting the colors of the rainbow.
sparkling	Sparkling is used to describe something that shines with many small bright flashes of light. It is often used for things like jewels, clean surfaces, or bubbly drinks. The diamonds in her ring were sparkling under the sunlight. The sparkling water bubbled and fizzed, refreshing in the summer heat.
glistening	Glistening is typically used to describe a surface that has a wet or oily texture, reflecting light in a way that makes it look shiny. It is often used for things like water drops, wet surfaces, or glossy skin. The morning dew left the grass glistening. His forehead was glistening with sweat after the intense workout.
glowing	Glowing refers to a steady and soft light that seems to come from within an object. It can describe things like embers, candles, or even a person’s complexion when it looks healthy and radiant. The campfire was glowing warmly, bringing comfort on the chilly night. She had a glowing smile that could brighten anyone's day.

Examples of usage

The shimmering stars filled the night sky.
The shimmering water reflected the sunlight beautifully.
The dress had a shimmering effect under the disco ball.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

moving with a soft light

When used as a verb, shimmering means to move gently with a soft, wavering light. It implies a subtle, flickering movement that catches the eye.

Synonyms

glisten, glow, twinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shimmering	Use 'shimmering' to describe something that shines with a soft, flickering light. It's often used for surfaces reflecting light gently, such as water or fabric. The effect is typically seen as beautiful and delicate. The lake was shimmering in the moonlight. Her dress had a shimmering quality that caught everyone's eye.
glow	Use 'glow' to describe a steady, soft light radiating from something. It's often used for light that comes from within, giving a sense of warmth and gentle brightness. It can be used positively to describe a warm ambiance or someone’s health or happiness. The fireplace gave the room a warm glow. Her skin seemed to glow with vitality.
glisten	Use 'glisten' to describe something that shines with a sparkling or glistening light, often when wet or oily. It conveys a sense of small, bright reflections and can be used in both positive and neutral contexts. The rain made the streets glisten under the streetlights. His eyes began to glisten with tears of joy.
twinkle	Use 'twinkle' to describe a small, bright, and usually intermittent light, like a star or a fairy light. It often implies a sense of playfulness or magic and is frequently used to describe stars or lights in a cheerful setting. The stars twinkle in the night sky. The fairy lights twinkle merrily on the Christmas tree.

Examples of usage

The leaves shimmered in the breeze.
The lake shimmered in the moonlight.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'shimmer' comes from the Middle English word 'shymrynge,' meaning to shine or glimmer.
Related words include 'glimmer' and 'glint,' all describing different forms of soft light.

Nature

Many creatures, like fireflies and certain fish, have the ability to shimmer, using light to attract mates or ward off predators.
Shimmering effects are common in nature, often seen in water surfaces when sunlight hits them at the right angle.

Art

In painting, artists use shimmering colors to create effects of light, particularly in landscapes and seascapes, adding depth and movement.
Famous artists like Claude Monet often captured shimmering reflections in their works, depicting scenes filled with light and atmosphere.

Cultural References

In many cultures, shimmering objects, like gold and silver, are associated with wealth and prosperity.
Shimmering is also a popular theme in fairy tales, where magical items glow to represent enchantment and mystery.

Science

The phenomenon of shimmering can be explained by light refraction, where light bends as it passes through different materials, creating an illusion of movement.
In physics, shimmering can also refer to the shimmering effect of heat waves on hot surfaces, such as roads on warm days.

Translations

Translations of the word "shimmering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cintilante

🇮🇳 झिलमिलाता

🇩🇪 schimmernd

🇮🇩 berkilau

🇺🇦 блискучий

🇵🇱 migoczący

🇯🇵 きらめく (kirameku)

🇫🇷 scintillant

🇪🇸 brillante

🇹🇷 parlayan

🇰🇷 반짝이는 (banjagineun)

🇸🇦 لامع (laami')

🇨🇿 třpytivý

🇸🇰 trblietavý

🇨🇳 闪烁的 (shǎnshuò de)

🇸🇮 bleščeč

🇮🇸 glitrandi

🇰🇿 жылтыраған

🇬🇪 ბრწყინვალე (brtskinvalee)

🇦🇿 parıldayan

🇲🇽 brillante

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,079, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18076 pith
18077 signalled
18078 nymph
18079 shimmering
18080 prelate
18081 contractile
18082 mariner
...