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Twinkling: meaning, definitions and examples

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twinkling

 

[ˈtwɪŋklɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

stars

Shine with a gleam that changes constantly; twinkle

Synonyms

glimmer, glitter, sparkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
twinkling

Use 'twinkling' when describing a brief, intermittent, and often gentle or soft light. It usually describes stars or small lights seen from afar.

  • The stars were twinkling in the night sky.
  • She noticed the twinkling of fairy lights in the garden.
sparkle

Use 'sparkle' when describing something that shines with bright points of light. It conveys a sense of liveliness and energy.

  • Her diamond earrings sparkled under the lights.
  • The fresh snow sparkled in the morning sun.
glitter

Use 'glitter' for a strong, bright, and often sparkling light. It is commonly used to describe something that shines brightly and attractively, often with a slightly gaudy or showy connotation.

  • The city's skyline glittered with lights.
  • Her dress was covered in glitter, making her stand out in the crowd.
glimmer

Use 'glimmer' to describe a faint or weak light that can be seen in the distance or is partially obstructed. It suggests a light that is not steady or is not fully clear.

  • There was a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.
  • A glimmer of hope appeared in his eyes.

Examples of usage

  • The stars were twinkling in the night sky.
  • The fairy lights twinkled in the darkness.
Context #2 | Noun

eyes

To shine with a flickering light; flicker

Synonyms

glimmer, glow, sparkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
twinkling

Ideal for describing small, intermittent flashes of light, often from distant or small sources, creating a charming and magical effect.

  • The twinkling stars filled the night sky
  • ; Her eyes were twinkling with excitement
sparkle

Applicable when describing bright, sharp flashes of light, typically suggesting liveliness or excitement.

  • The diamond sparkled in the sunlight
  • ; He spoke with a sparkle in his voice
glimmer

Best used when referring to faint or wavering light, intimating something delicate or barely visible.

  • A glimmer of hope appeared on the horizon
  • ; She saw a glimmer of light through the thick fog
glow

Use for steady, warm light emanating from a source, often giving a sense of warmth or gentle illumination.

  • The fireplace gave a warm glow to the room
  • ; Her face had a healthy glow after the workout

Examples of usage

  • Her eyes were twinkling with mischief.
  • The Christmas lights twinkled in the windows.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'twinkle' comes from Middle English 'twinklen', which means to shine with a flickering light.
  • 'Twinkling' has been used in English literature since the early 14th century, emphasizing the charm of flickering lights.

Science

  • Twinkling occurs when light from stars passes through different layers of Earth's atmosphere, causing a visual distortion.
  • This phenomenon is called 'stellar scintillation' and is more pronounced when viewing stars close to the horizon.

Literature

  • Many poems and songs use 'twinkling' to evoke feelings of magic and wonder, especially in relation to stars and dreams.
  • Shakespeare referred to twinkling in his works, showing its long-lasting presence in English poetry and drama.

Pop Culture

  • 'Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star' is one of the most famous nursery rhymes, emphasizing the enchanting quality of stars.
  • The word often appears in songs, stories, and movies, symbolizing hope, inspiration, and beauty.

Psychology

  • Seeing twinkling lights, such as stars, can evoke feelings of nostalgia and calmness, facilitating a sense of peace.
  • Research indicates that observing twinkling lights can enhance mood and reduce stress, tying closely to our desire for connection with nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "twinkling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cintilação

🇮🇳 टिमटिमाना

🇩🇪 funkelnd

🇮🇩 berkelap-kelip

🇺🇦 мерехтіння

🇵🇱 migotanie

🇯🇵 きらめき (kirameki)

🇫🇷 scintillement

🇪🇸 centelleo

🇹🇷 parıldama

🇰🇷 반짝임 (banjjagim)

🇸🇦 تألق

🇨🇿 třpyt

🇸🇰 trblietanie

🇨🇳 闪烁 (shǎnshuò)

🇸🇮 svetlikanje

🇮🇸 glitrun

🇰🇿 жарқырау

🇬🇪 მოელვარე

🇦🇿 parıldama

🇲🇽 centelleo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,358, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.