glassy
UK: ˈɡlɑːsi | US: ˈɡlæsi
adj. resembling glass in appearance; smooth, shiny, and transparent or translucent
adj. (of eyes or expression) dull, lifeless, or unfocused
The word "glassy" combines the noun "glass" (from Old English glæs, meaning "transparent, brittle substance") with the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives indicating resemblance or quality. The term originally described physical properties akin to glass (e.g., smoothness, shine) and later extended metaphorically to describe vacant or expressionless eyes (early 19th century). The evolution reflects a shift from literal to figurative usage, anchored in glass’s visual characteristics.
The lake’s surface was glassy under the morning sun.
Her glassy stare suggested she wasn’t listening.
The polished table had a glassy finish.
His eyes turned glassy after the long flight.
The artist created a glassy effect in the painting.