Glitter
/ˈɡlɪtər/
Definitions
2 meaningsA collection of small, sparkling particles of a substance used for decoration.
/ˈɡlɪtər/
Small, shiny particles
The craft store had a wide variety of glitter colors.
💡 Simply: Glitter is like tiny, sparkly confetti! You sprinkle it on things to make them look extra special and shiny, like when you're making a birthday card or getting ready for a fun party. Remember the shiny stuff on your favorite sticker or your friend's sparkly shoes? That's often glitter!
👶 For kids: Shiny, sparkly bits that make things pretty!
More Examples
The fairy's dress was covered in shimmering glitter.
A little glitter went a long way in adding sparkle to the project.
How It's Used
"The children used glitter to decorate their artwork."
"She added glitter to her makeup for the party."
To shine with a shimmering or sparkling light.
/ˈɡlɪtər/
To shine with a shimmering light
The snow glittered in the sunlight.
💡 Simply: When something *glitters*, it's like it's catching the light and twinkling. Think of the stars at night – they glitter! Or imagine a fancy necklace – it might glitter under the lights, showing off its shine.
👶 For kids: To shine and sparkle!
More Examples
Her diamond ring glittered in the restaurant's dim lighting.
The city lights glittered in the distance.
How It's Used
"The jewels glittered under the candlelight."
"Her eyes glittered with excitement."
From Middle English *gliteren*, possibly from a Scandinavian source, akin to Old Norse *glitra* ('to glitter').
The word 'glitter' has been used since Middle English and has always related to the idea of a shimmering or sparkling appearance.
Memory tip
Think of the shimmering effect on a disco ball or a holiday ornament.
Word Origin
"To shine, to gleam"