rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryglistenWet-looking shine
verb / noun

glisten

GLISS-un/ˈɡlɪsn/

A bright, wet-looking shine, or to shine this way.

Leaves glisten in the sunlight after a brief morning shower.

A close view of a green leaf covered with dew, with soft reflected highlights on the wet surface and rounded droplets.
Etymology
glistenOld Englishto gleam

Old English glisnian already described gleaming or shining. The selected sense continues that light imagery, specifically for a soft shine produced by reflected light.

In context

Lighthouse Horror48:05
the cloak she wore appeared to glisten at a distance either wet or coated in some reflexive substance
"Beware The Cloaked Woman Of Crabber's Bay" | Creepypasta | Horror Story

More examples

  • Her eyes glisten with tears as she reads the letter.
  • The warm rolls glistened with melted butter.
  • A faint glisten of sweat covers his forehead.

Forms

glisten · glistens · glistened · glistening

Similar words

gleam
Suggests a smooth, steady shine, not necessarily wet-looking.
glitter
Emphasizes many small, bright flashes rather than a wet-looking shine.
shimmer
Emphasizes soft, wavering light rather than a glossy surface.