Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective lustrous differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of lustrous are bright, brilliant, luminous, and radiant. While all these words mean "shining or glowing with light," lustrous stresses an even, rich light from a surface that reflects brightly without glittering.

When might bright be a better fit than lustrous?

The words bright and lustrous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bright implies emitting or reflecting a high degree of light.

When would brilliant be a good substitute for lustrous?

While the synonyms brilliant and lustrous are close in meaning, brilliant implies intense often sparkling brightness.

When is luminous a more appropriate choice than lustrous?

The synonyms luminous and lustrous are sometimes interchangeable, but luminous implies emission of steady, suffused, glowing light by reflection or in surrounding darkness.

When could radiant be used to replace lustrous?

The words radiant and lustrous can be used in similar contexts, but radiant stresses the emission or seeming emission of rays of light.

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of lustrous An iridescent top coat is the key to the perfect French chrome manicure, as illustrated by this lustrous look at Dluxe Nails. Mica Ricketts, refinery29.com, 28 Feb. 2025 For example, a light lavender lining peeks out from underneath the tool of the Rapunzel dress, which can be paired with a long, dramatic boa to imitate her lustrous mane. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 11 Feb. 2025 Famous for its bond-building technology—which has resulted in more lustrous locks for celebrities like Charlize Theron—Olaplex infuses its moisture mask with a patented ingredient that Collins approves of. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025 Phelps recommends semi-regular salon visits to keep the color rich and lustrous (typically every eight to 12 weeks), paired with color-protecting shampoos and conditioners to prevent fading. Izzie Deibe, refinery29.com, 15 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lustrous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lustrous
Adjective
  • But the overall vibe is luminous and joyful — almost celebratory.
    Ernesto Lechner, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2025
  • The silky formula glides on, leaving skin luminous and smooth.
    Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Authentic and relatable videos often perform better than highly polished productions.
    Dr. Bin Tang, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Nanette Nanette Lepore Freedom Stretch Pants These straight-leg pants are at once casual and polished, thanks to a tab fly, buttoned back welt pockets, and hems that hit right above the ankles on most people.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Come for breakfast or a light lunch and stay for their dazzling cheese selection—over 150 varieties served with the kind of attention to detail that makes even a simple sandwich feel sublime.
    Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 24 Apr. 2025
  • The movie, a dazzling retelling of a mythic boy-god, has grossed an astonishing US$2 billion worldwide, outperforming many Hollywood releases.
    Shaoyu Yuan, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Her next shining moment comes when two young sisters enter the hospital.
    Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • There were definitely moments that were less shining than others for me.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 5 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The lightweight formula is spiked with Lamellar Lamination technology to hydrate, detangle and leave locks glossy.
    Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Indeed, you could be forgiven for growing slightly cynical of the big pledges, glossy roadmaps, endless subsidy schemes, and constant climate conferences.
    Antoine Rostand, Time, 21 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Fine needles stimulate collagen and elastin for a glowing, even complexion, ideal for addressing hyperpigmentation before a trip.
    Rana Good, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • The townsfolk run for cover as the glowing red eyes and bone-chilling howls signal the return of the terrifying creature.
    Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Today’s modern Colonial is likely influenced by the current swing from sleek interior designs towards more traditional styles, but streamlined for contemporary lifestyles.
    Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Snapped up by the singer from the fall 2025 collection, the hefty piece had a puffer-like construction to it—but it was finished with sleek details typical of the house, with gold hardware at the neckline.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Unlike Spears, however, Lopez wore her shiny catsuit in a soft pink tone with mauve panels and a ruched belt, finishing off the look with a metallic silver clutch, pink plastic sunglasses, and a slick-back ponytail.
    Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 19 Apr. 2025
  • There’s the misery pit of a first New York apartment in the ’90s, when Manhattan felt less shiny and shut off by wealth.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lustrous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lustrous. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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