Gleam

/ɡliːm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a brief or faint light; a sparkle.

He saw a gleam in her eye that suggested mischief.

a small, bright light or a glimmer.

The gleam of the diamond caught his attention.

an indication or suggestion of something.

There was a gleam of hope in his words.

verb

to shine brightly; to emit a small, bright light.

The moon gleams on the surface of the lake.

to appear briefly or faintly.

A smile gleamed on her lips as she heard the good news.

to reflect light; to glimmer.

The polished silverware gleamed in the candlelight.

Middle English 'gleme' from Old English 'gleamian', related to the concept of light and brightness.

gleam in one's eye

A look of excitement or enthusiasm.

gleaming with health

Appearing very healthy and radiant.

on the gleam

To be in a state of shining or brightness.

glimmer

A faint or wavering light.

glint

A small, quick flash of light.

shine

To emit or reflect light.

To have a bright idea or moment of realization.

When she figured it out, there was a gleam in her eye.

To feel or appear excited and lively.

After getting the good news, he was gleaming all day.