gleam
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1gleam

noun \ˈglēm\

Definition of GLEAM

1
a : a transient appearance of subdued or partly obscured light <the gleam of dawn in the east>
b (1) : a small bright light <the gleam of a match>
(2) : glint <a gleam in his eyes>
2
: a brief or faint appearance <a gleam of hope>
gleamy \ˈglē-mē\ adjective

Examples of GLEAM

  1. He saw the gleam of a flashlight in the distance.
  2. the rich gleam of the polished wood

Origin of GLEAM

Middle English gleem, from Old English glǣm; akin to Old English geolu yellow — more at yellow
First Known Use: 15th century

2gleam

verb

Definition of GLEAM

intransitive verb
1
: to shine with or as if with subdued steady light or moderate brightness
2
: to appear briefly or faintly <a light gleamed in the distance>
transitive verb
: to cause to gleam

Examples of GLEAM

  1. The sun gleamed on the water.
  2. His eyes were gleaming with delight.

First Known Use of GLEAM

1508

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