Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective lustrous differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of lustrous are bright, brilliant, luminous, and radiant. While all these words mean "shining or glowing with light," lustrous stresses an even, rich light from a surface that reflects brightly without glittering.

When might bright be a better fit than lustrous?

The words bright and lustrous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bright implies emitting or reflecting a high degree of light.

When would brilliant be a good substitute for lustrous?

While the synonyms brilliant and lustrous are close in meaning, brilliant implies intense often sparkling brightness.

When is luminous a more appropriate choice than lustrous?

The synonyms luminous and lustrous are sometimes interchangeable, but luminous implies emission of steady, suffused, glowing light by reflection or in surrounding darkness.

When could radiant be used to replace lustrous?

The words radiant and lustrous can be used in similar contexts, but radiant stresses the emission or seeming emission of rays of light.

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of lustrous The web-like blue and gold dial is housed in a 40mm case made of tantalum, a very hard, ductile, lustrous, blue-gray transition metal that is highly corrosion-resistant. Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 This lustrous airy silk gown with sheer panels along the chest and the back is not only the dreamiest take on a slip dress, but an obvious choice for a minimalist. Sarah Zendejas, Vogue, 6 Apr. 2025 An iridescent top coat is the key to the perfect French chrome manicure, as illustrated by this lustrous look at Dluxe Nails. Mica Ricketts, refinery29.com, 28 Feb. 2025 For example, a light lavender lining peeks out from underneath the tool of the Rapunzel dress, which can be paired with a long, dramatic boa to imitate her lustrous mane. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 11 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lustrous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lustrous
Adjective
  • But for dryer skin types, this step can be skipped so the Glow Mist can easily lock everything in while keeping the skin luminous, fresh and protected throughout the day.
    Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • What finally elevated my perspective was a luminous Book that perfectly alchemized my thoughts, beliefs, with human nature.
    Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Enter Wolf, who by all accounts is more polished offensively at 21 than Bassey and Biyombo (a good argument for Mamu, too).
    The Athletic NBA Staff, New York Times, 13 May 2025
  • The menu features polished but traditional Turkish dishes and the chef sources the best seafood and produce locally, keeping the selections seasonal.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • As for her accessories, the actress kept her look minimal, favoring a few dazzling rings.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 May 2025
  • Stargazing North Carolinians are in luck this month – one of astronomy’s most dazzling phenomena will be visible soon.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Attendees rode in support of and alongside community member Eva Zamora, who is a shining example of how to live your best life with Parkinson’s disease and takes cycle classes at EōS regularly, a news release stated.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Her next shining moment comes when two young sisters enter the hospital.
    Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Think glossy oak flooring, coffered ceilings, and custom millwork.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 May 2025
  • Jin pushes his signature style even further with Echo, his new 7-song EP, with emotional ballads and glossy rock moves that give him a chance to shine bright on his own, all open-hearted charm.
    Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • While the country’s cuisine doesn’t enjoy a glowing international reputation, many of its most beloved dishes are simple, hearty and deeply rooted in local tradition.
    David Nikel, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • This is hardly a glowing endorsement from the network that, after 13 seasons, took the unprecedented decision to recast RHONY — a show that was once the jewel in the franchise’s crown — around a new group of women.
    Louis Staples, Rolling Stone, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Guests start outside on a heated patio with small bites before moving into a sleek dining room for a multi-course meal.
    Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 21 May 2025
  • This model has some sleek upgrades to the old-fashioned mason jar—the innovative flip-top lid with handle has an airtight silicone seal that keeps leaks and spills at bay.
    Carrie Honaker, Southern Living, 21 May 2025
Adjective
  • The slate, granite and marble headstones were shinier, with English letters and Chinese characters.
    Erika Hayasaki, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 May 2025
  • With its thin green light across its top and shiny white plastic shell, the Zafro gives EVE from WALL-E vibes.
    Julian Chokkattu, Wired News, 12 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lustrous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lustrous. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

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