Shine: meaning, definitions and examples

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shine

 

[ʃaɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in the sun

To emit light; to be bright with reflected light; to glow.

Synonyms

beam, glow, radiate.

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Word Description / Examples
shine

This word is often used to describe the light that comes from a source such as the sun, a light bulb, or something polished. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's exceptional performance or character traits.

  • The sun shines brightly in the morning
  • She always shines in her math tests
glow

This word is used to describe a soft, steady light, often from something that is warm or magical. It can also describe a warm feeling of satisfaction or happiness.

  • The fireplace filled the room with a warm glow
  • She had a happy glow after hearing the good news
radiate

Radiate is often used to describe light or heat spreading out from a central source in all directions. It can also describe someone showing a strong emotion or quality.

  • The heaters radiate warmth throughout the room
  • She radiates confidence whenever she speaks
beam

Beam is generally used to describe a focused and directed line of light from a source. It can also refer to a broad and enthusiastic smile.

  • A beam of light came through the window
  • He beamed with pride at his daughter's achievement

Examples of usage

  • The sun shone brightly in the clear blue sky.
  • Her eyes shone with happiness.
Context #2 | Verb

success

To excel or be conspicuous.

Synonyms

excel, stand out, succeed.

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Word Description / Examples
shine

Used when someone or something is very bright, either literally with light or figuratively by being exceptional in a specific area.

  • The diamond necklace really shines under the spotlight.
  • He always manages to shine in mathematics competitions.
excel

Applies when someone performs extremely well at a particular task or in a specific field, often surpassing others.

  • She excels in her piano performances.
  • If you want to excel in your career, you need to work hard and stay focused.
stand out

Describes someone or something that is much better or more noticeable than others in a group, making them easily recognizable.

  • His unique style makes him stand out in the crowd.
  • The bright red car really stands out in the parking lot.
succeed

Used when someone achieves their goals or does well in a particular endeavor or aspect of life.

  • It took years of hard work, but they finally succeeded in their business venture.
  • Her determination and persistence helped her succeed in the end.

Examples of usage

  • She shone as a student and received top honors.
  • His talent truly shone in the performance.
Context #3 | Noun

brightness

A bright or glossy appearance.

Synonyms

gloss, luster, sheen.

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Word Description / Examples
shine

Best used to describe a bright, radiant light coming from a source, such as the sun or a flashlight. Also used metaphorically for someone's talent or personality.

  • The sun began to shine after the storm.
  • Her smile can really shine in a crowd.
gloss

Often used in the context of a smooth, shiny surface, usually describing something polished or coated, like in cosmetics, furniture, or printed materials.

  • She applied a layer of gloss to her lips.
  • The table had a beautiful gloss finish.
luster

Typically used to describe a gentle, soft shine, often relating to precious metals, jewels, or hair. Gives the impression of quality and pure beauty.

  • The pearl necklace had a remarkable luster.
  • Her hair had a beautiful, healthy luster.
sheen

Similar to luster, but usually implies a glossy appearance over a surface, like fabric, water, or even skin. Often highlights a smooth texture.

  • The silk dress had a subtle sheen.
  • The water's surface had a golden sheen at sunset.

Examples of usage

  • The car had a shine to it that made heads turn.
  • The shine of the polished silver caught her eye.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English term 'scīnan', which means to emit light or glow.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled as 'shinen', showing its long history in the language.
  • The roots of the term can be traced back to Proto-Germanic 'skīnan', indicating brightness or illumination.

Literature

  • Shakespeare often used the word in his plays to describe beauty and brightness, enhancing the imagery.
  • In poetry, 'shine' is frequently used as a metaphor for hope or inspiration, like a light in darkness.
  • Famous works like 'The Great Gatsby' use the idea of shine to symbolize dreams and aspirations.

Pop Culture

  • Songs like 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' by Pink Floyd convey themes of brilliance and loss.
  • Shining characters often appear in films, representing good, hope, or the hero’s journey.
  • In contemporary culture, the term is often linked to self-empowerment, encouraging people to express their true selves.

Science

  • In physics, to shine refers to the emission of light as a result of exciting atoms or molecules.
  • The sun shines thanks to nuclear fusion, a process that produces immense amounts of energy.
  • Bioluminescent organisms, like certain jellyfish, can naturally shine by producing light through chemical reactions.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, a person who 'shines' might be seen as confident, often radiating positivity and attracting others.
  • Shining moments can lead to a boost in self-esteem, as people often feel good about themselves when they stand out.
  • The concept of 'shine' is tied to emotional expression, where positive attitudes can literally make a person appear more radiant.

Translations

Translations of the word "shine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brilhar

🇮🇳 चमकना

🇩🇪 scheinen

🇮🇩 bersinar

🇺🇦 світити

🇵🇱 świecić

🇯🇵 輝く (kagayaku)

🇫🇷 briller

🇪🇸 brillar

🇹🇷 parlamak

🇰🇷 빛나다

🇸🇦 يتألق

🇨🇿 zářit

🇸🇰 žiariť

🇨🇳 闪耀 (shǎnyào)

🇸🇮 sijati

🇮🇸 skína

🇰🇿 жарқырау

🇬🇪 ბრწყინვალება

🇦🇿 parlamaq

🇲🇽 brillar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,064 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.