luster
UK: ˈlʌstə | US: ˈlʌstər
n. a gentle sheen or soft glow (especially on a smooth surface)
n. brilliance, radiance, or distinction
v. to make or become lustrous
luster = lust<brightness> + er<noun suffix>
- lust (from Old Norse ljos "light," Proto-Germanic leuhtaz "bright") → Retained in English as "luster" with the core meaning of radiance.
- er (noun-forming suffix) → Often used to denote a quality or state (e.g., "glitter," "flicker").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Old Norse ljos (light) and Proto-Germanic leuhtaz, evolving into Middle English lustre via Old French. The suffix -er solidified its noun form, emphasizing a shimmering quality. The logic follows light → brightness → visible glow, reflecting how natural radiance (e.g., polished metal, pearls) became associated with beauty and prestige.
The diamond’s luster captivated everyone in the room.
Over time, the silver lost its luster due to oxidation.
Her performance added luster to the team’s reputation.
Wax can restore the luster of wooden furniture.
The moon cast a soft luster over the lake.