sunshine
Americannoun
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the shining of the sun; direct light of the sun.
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brightness or radiance; cheerfulness or happiness.
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a source of cheer or happiness.
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the effect of the sun in lighting and heating a place.
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a place where the direct rays of the sun fall.
adjective
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of or relating to sunshine laws.
sunshine rules.
noun
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the light received directly from the sun
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the warmth from the sun
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a sunny area
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a light-hearted or ironic term of address
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of sunshine
Explanation
Sunshine is the light that comes from the sun. On a clear, cloudless spring day, you can go outside and enjoy the sunshine. Scientifically, sunshine or sunlight is the radiation that the sun gives off. You can describe any light or warmth you observe from the sun as sunshine: "Look at the sunshine sparkling on the lake this morning!" Figuratively, the word is also used for cheerfulness, warmth, and happiness: "It's all sunshine and sing-alongs in the kindergarten classroom, but fourth grade is totally different."
Vocabulary lists containing sunshine
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.
Liverpool trailed Arsenal 1-0 in the Cardiff sunshine when Owen levelled with a smartly taken half-volley in the 83rd minute.
From BBC • May 15, 2026
However, with some strong spring sunshine also in the forecast, with lighter winds later in the week, it will still feel pleasantly warm at times.
From BBC • May 11, 2026
Even without the wind, that stronger sunshine can temper any chill during daylight hours.
From BBC • May 9, 2026
Like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day, the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest has arrived to dispel the gloom of a weary world.
From BBC • May 8, 2026
She had promised Clara sunshine, and she was one to keep a promise, even if the ghost was not around to appreciate it.
From "Ophie's Ghosts" by Justina Ireland
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
