Meaning 1
A soft reflected shine on a surface.
Reach for it when describing a material's gentle sheen
Beeswax restored the table's luster without hiding its age.
Meaning 2
An attractive distinction that gives something prestige or appeal.
Reach for it when describing reputation or splendor figuratively
Her careful translations added luster to the small university press.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| playful | ||
| everyday | ||
| professional | ||
| formal |
| |
| literary |
|
everyday
gloss
Fits when a smooth shiny finish is the practical feature
Careful Gloss is usually brighter and more artificial than luster.
everyday
Fits when plain wording for reflected brightness fits
Careful Shine may be harsh or direct rather than soft.
professional
sheen
Fits when a smooth soft surface reflection is meant
Careful Sheen can look oily and does not imply admired beauty.
literary
Fits when the object seems to emit vivid light
Careful Radiance is stronger and may concern a face or source.
playful
glamor
Fits when exciting public appeal is the point
Careful Glamor may be superficial; achievement needs separate evidence.
professional
Fits when recognized status is the precise figurative meaning
Careful Prestige is social standing, not the attractive quality that creates it.
formal
Fits when excellence sets the subject apart
Careful Distinction lacks luster's visual metaphor and public glow.
restore luster
A gentle polish will restore luster to the brass letters.
lose its luster
The award began to lose its luster after secret judging emerged.
soft luster
The clay tiles developed a soft luster with use.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated
Your browser isn't saving lists, so this one will be cleared when you leave the page.