Synonyms

shining

American

[shahy-ning] / ˈʃaɪ nɪŋ /

adjective

radiant; gleaming; bright.

Synonyms:

effulgent
resplendent; brilliant.

shining talents.

Synonyms:

lustrous
conspicuously fine.

a shining example.

Synonyms:

splendid, prime, eminent, distinguished, outstanding

Related Words

See bright.

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of shining

First recorded before 900; Middle English s(c)hininge, schininde, Old English scinende; see shine ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There’s far more to the story than Spikevax, though Covid revenue was undeniably the shining star of the latest earnings report.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

“I enjoy questioning authority and shining light on things people usually don’t look into.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

Your skin is slightly shining from perspiration, but you barely feel the heat because you get to enjoy the cold deliciousness of a frozen yogurt pop.

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

The government has decided – for now – against revamping the entire system, with gas still playing an important role when the Sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Death reached up and pulled him down, and it was shining and smooth, like the moment of falling asleep ...

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023