sheen
UK: ʃiːn | US: ʃiːn
n. a soft, smooth, shiny quality of a surface; luster or gloss
The word "sheen" traces back to Old English scīene, meaning "bright" or "beautiful," which itself derives from Proto-Germanic skauniz ("visible, shining"). Over time, it narrowed to describe the visual quality of reflected light on surfaces. Unlike many modern English words, "sheen" remains monomorphic—its spelling and meaning have stayed intact without compounding or affixation. The word’s persistence reflects its vivid sensory association with light and beauty.
The polished marble floor had a brilliant sheen.
Her hair caught the sunlight with a golden sheen.
The car’s wax gave it a mirror-like sheen.
The fabric’s metallic sheen made it stand out.
Morning dew left a delicate sheen on the grass.