# gleam

/ˈɡɫim/ (US) · /ɡlˈiːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gleam
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a small, bright light or a flash of something, like a metal surface. It can also mean a sudden feeling of hope or a bright idea.

For teachers: a brief flash of light or a small, bright spot; by extension, a sudden flash of insight or a brief period of hope. Often used in literary or poetic contexts.

## Examples

- A small gleam of light appeared through the dark clouds.
- The old silver spoon caught a gleam of sunlight as the chef moved it across the table.
- A sudden gleam of hope sparked in her eyes as she realized the long-lost manuscript was still intact and waiting to be read.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.