lustrous
UK: ˈlʌstrəs | US: ˈlʌstrəs
adj. having a shiny or glowing surface; radiant
adj. (figuratively) brilliant or impressive in quality
lustr<shine> + ous<adjective suffix>
- lustr: Derived from Latin lustrare ("to illuminate, purify"), related to lux ("light"). The root implies brightness or clarity.
- ous: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating possession or quality (e.g., "glorious," "famous").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin lustrare, which originally meant "to purify by ritual illumination" (linking light to spiritual clarity). Over time, lustrous evolved in English (17th century) to describe physical shine, retaining its association with radiance. The logic mirrors how light symbolizes both literal brightness and metaphorical excellence.
Her lustrous hair gleamed under the sunlight.
The diamond’s lustrous surface reflected every color of the rainbow.
The actor delivered a lustrous performance that captivated the audience.
The polished marble floor had a lustrous sheen.
The artist used varnish to give the painting a lustrous finish.