lustrous

adjective

lus·​trous ˈlə-strəs 

1

: reflecting light evenly and efficiently without glitter or sparkle

a lustrous satin

the lustrous glow of an opal

2

: radiant in character or reputation : illustrious

set a lustrous example for others to follow

—Russell Grenfell

lustrously adverb

lustrousness noun

Synonyms

• luminous
• dazzling
• shining
• glowing
• shiny
• bright
• radiant
• gleaming
• brilliant
• shimmering

Choose the Right Synonym for lustrous

bright, brilliant, radiant, luminous, lustrous mean shining or glowing with light.

bright implies emitting or reflecting a high degree of light.

brilliant implies intense often sparkling brightness.

radiant stresses the emission or seeming emission of rays of light.

luminous implies emission of steady, suffused, glowing light by reflection or in surrounding darkness.

lustrous stresses an even, rich light from a surface that reflects brightly without glittering.

Examples of lustrous in a Sentence

the lustrous finish on the satin bedspread adds to the feeling of luxury

lustrous silver jewelry adorned her neck

Recent Examples on the Web

The Reid Four-Light Lantern Pendant is the perfect pendant light for vaulted ceilings with its streamlined geometric silhouette, gleaming glass panels, and lustrous metal frame. —Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025

The play’s sound (Carolyn Downing) is rich and lustrous throughout, notable showcasing the Indian musical cadences (Andrew T. Mackay is the composer) that propel early scenes. —Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 5 June 2025

Her look consisted of a velvety column skirt with a blue floral blossom design against a white backdrop; the garment was finished with long and lustrous gold fringe at the bottom. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 2 June 2025

Beyond making your strands look more lustrous, this spray-on oil styling mask has a baobab oil-protein technology that rebuild bonds and seals the hair cuticle. —Jenn Barthole, Glamour, 28 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1