What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gleaming
Example
The sun was gleaming off the surface of the lake. [gleaming: verb]
Example
The gleaming silverware caught my eye. [gleaming: adjective]
lustrous
Example
Her hair was lustrous and silky. [lustrous: adjective]
Example
The pearls had a lustrous sheen. [lustrous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gleaming is more commonly used than lustrous in everyday language. Gleaming is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while lustrous is less common and is often used in more formal or poetic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gleaming and lustrous?
Lustrous is typically associated with a more formal and elegant tone, while gleaming can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
