Sparkly: meaning, definitions and examples

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sparkly

 

[ˈspɑːrkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

description, appearance

Sparkly describes something that shines brightly with a flickering light, often resembling stars or glittering objects. It is commonly used to refer to items that have a glimmering or shimmering quality due to reflective surfaces or embedded materials.

Synonyms

glimmering, glittery, shimmering, shiny, twinkling.

Examples of usage

  • The dress was adorned with sparkly sequins.
  • Her eyes had a sparkly gleam in the sunlight.
  • The sparkly decorations made the party feel festive.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'sparkly' is derived from the word 'spark', which comes from Old English 'spearca', meaning a small fiery particle.
  • It emerged in English to describe things that shine or glimmer, especially in a joyful or festive context.

Pop Culture

  • Sparkly items, like glittery clothing and accessories, have been trendy in fashion, symbolizing celebration and fun.
  • In movies and books aimed at children, sparkly characters often represent magic, happiness, and adventures.

Science

  • Light reflecting off a surface can create a sparkly effect, which is due to the way light bounces off uneven textures.
  • Crystals and gems often appear sparkly because of their ability to refract light, creating a beautiful display of colors.

Nature

  • Many minerals, like quartz, can have a sparkly appearance due to their crystalline structure.
  • Dewdrops on grass in the morning can appear sparkly as they catch the sunlight, resembling tiny jewels on the ground.

Emotional Symbolism

  • Things that are sparkly often evoke feelings of joy, celebration, and excitement, similar to how we feel at parties or holidays.
  • In art, sparkly elements can be used to symbolize hope and wonder, attracting attention and lifting spirits.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,821 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.