Word
glossy
US/ˈɡɫɔsi/
UK/ɡlˈɒsi/
Definitions
01shiny and smooth
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. having a smooth, shiny surface that reflects light.
adj. possessing a smooth, lustrous, or reflective surface finish.
“The new car had a beautiful glossy finish that shone in the sun.”
“The designer specified a glossy coating for the brochure to ensure the high-resolution photographs appeared vibrant and professional.”
02a high-quality magazine
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal
n. a magazine printed on high-quality, shiny paper, usually about fashion or celebrities.
n. a magazine printed on high-quality, lustrous paper, typically associated with high-end fashion, lifestyle, or celebrity content.
“She spent the afternoon reading the fashion glossies while waiting for her appointment.”
“Despite the rise of digital media, high-end glossies continue to attract significant advertising revenue from luxury brands.”
Synonyms
03a shiny photograph
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal
n. a photograph printed with a shiny, reflective finish.
n. a photographic print with a smooth, reflective surface finish.
“The actor handed out signed glossies to the fans waiting outside.”
“The studio produced a series of eight-by-ten glossies for the cast to use during the press junket.”
Synonyms
Usage
Commonly used both attributively before a noun and predicatively after linking verbs like 'look' or 'feel'.
Real-World Examples
“Hemingway says it’s the colour of luxury brands : things like “ glossy black limousines” and “ designer watches” are often black.” “Whichever method you use, Bramlett said the milk should turn out glossy and paint-like.” “You can pick from plain gloss black plastics and glossy grey.” Etymology
From gloss + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/glossy