# glossy

/ˈɡɫɔsi/ (US) · /ɡlˈɒsi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/glossy
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. shiny and smooth

adjective · CEFR B2

having a smooth, shiny surface that reflects light.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. a high-quality magazine

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

a magazine printed on high-quality, shiny paper, usually about fashion or celebrities.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form 'glossies'.

### 4. a shiny photograph

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

a photograph printed with a shiny, reflective finish.

For teachers: 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.

Teaching tip: In the film and theatre industry, this specifically refers to promotional headshots.

## Examples

- The new magazine has a beautiful glossy cover.
- The photographer preferred a glossy finish for the portraits to make the colors appear more vibrant and deep.
- While matte finishes are often preferred for gallery displays to minimize glare, commercial advertisements typically utilize glossy coatings to attract the consumer's eye with high-contrast imagery.

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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.