Meaning & use
gleam
Last updated
To shine with a soft, brief, or subdued light.
See it in a sentence
The polished silverware gleamed under the dining room lights.
Her eyes gleamed with excitement when she heard the news.
A note on using this word
Frequently used figuratively, as in 'a gleam of hope' or 'eyes gleaming with mischief,' not just for literal light.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
dull
Another way to use it
2. noun
A brief or faint flash of light.
A gleam of sunlight broke through the clouds.
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