gleam

Everyday

1. To shine softly or brightly, often by reflecting light: «The polished car gleamed.» tree →
2. (noun) A soft light or shine. tree →
3. (noun) A small sign of a feeling or idea: «a gleam of hope», «a gleam in his eye». tree →

In the lessons

Used in stories to describe shining things (swords, water, eyes, clean floors) and hope. «A gleam in his eye» often means a character has a clever or mischievous idea. In The Wind in the Willows the river gleams and sparkles in the sun.

Examples

• The river gleamed in the morning sun. tree →
• Her eyes gleamed with excitement. tree →
• The kitchen floor was gleaming after we cleaned it. tree →
• A gleam of light shone under the door. tree →
• There was a gleam of hope at last. tree →
• Toad had a naughty gleam in his eye. tree →
• A falling star gleamed across the sky. tree →

Note

Regular verb. Adjective: gleaming (gleaming white teeth). Similar: shine, glint (a quick small flash), glow (steady light without flame), glitter, sparkle.