Meaning & Definition of word "Shine"

Shine

/ʃaɪn/

noun:

  • 1. The quality of emitting or reflecting light; brightness.
    • Example: The shine of the new car caught everyone's attention.
  • 2. A bright or luminous quality; brilliance.
    • Example: There was a certain shine in her eyes as she spoke about her dreams.

verb:

  • 1. To emit or reflect light; to be bright or radiant.
    • Example: The stars shine brightly in the night sky.
  • 2. To be eminent or distinguished; to excel in any capacity.
    • Example: She shines in her role as a leader.
  • 3. To make something glossy or bright, often by polishing.
    • Example: He used a cloth to shine the silverware until it was sparkling.

Etymology

Middle English shinen, from Old English scīnan; akin to Old High German scīnen.

Common Phrases and Expressions

shine like a diamond:

To shine very brightly, to stand out.

let your light shine:

Be yourself and show your true abilities.

shine on:

To continue doing something despite challenges.

Related Words

shining:

The act of producing a bright light.

shined:

Past tense of shine, meaning the light was emitted.

shiner:

A person or thing that shines or a black eye.

Slang Meanings of shine

Meaning: To show off or to do exceptionally well.

Example Sentence: He's really shining in his new job.

Meaning: To steal, especially in the context of petty crimes.

Example Sentence: He got caught trying to shine something from the store.