glitter

[glit-er]

verb (used without object)

1. to reflect light with a brilliant, sparkling luster; sparkle with reflected light.

2. to make a brilliant show.

noun

1. a sparkling reflected light or luster.

   Synonyms: sparkle

2. showy splendor.

3. small glittering ornaments.

glitter

/ ˈɡlɪtə /

verb

1. (of a hard, wet, or polished surface) to reflect light in bright flashes

2. (of light) to be reflected in bright flashes

3. (usually foll by with) to be decorated or enhanced by the glamour (of)

   the show glitters with famous actors

noun

1. sparkle or brilliance

2. show and glamour

3. tiny pieces of shiny decorative material used for ornamentation, as on the skin

4. Also called: silver thaw. ice formed from freezing rain

Other Word Forms

• glitteringly adverb
• outglitter verb (used with object)
• unglittering adjective
• glittery adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of glitter¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Old Norse glitra; compare Old English glitenian, German gleissen “to shine, glitter”

Word History and Origins

Origin of glitter¹

C14: from Old Norse glitra; related to Old High German glīzan to shine

Idioms and Phrases

see all that glitters is not gold.

Synonym Study

See flash.

Example Sentences

He said that it is fantastic to see someone from Northern Ireland and indeed the whole island of Ireland reach such glittering heights.

From BBC

Models who had walked for the designer over the past five decades returned to showcase a mix of classic suits and glittering dresses.

From BBC

That investment doesn't glitter like a World Cup, but it is just as rare a commodity.

From BBC

The president seemed to enjoy his lavish royal reception in the UK, not least the glittering state banquet held in his honour.

From BBC

This though was the sort of sustained glitter that earned her the world player of the year award last December.

From BBC

Related Words

• gleam 
• glimmer 
• glint 
• glisten 
• glow 
• scintillate 
• shimmer 
• shine 
• twinkle