English Reference
adjective · noun

sparkling

adj. · n.
US /ˈspɑɹkəɫɪŋ/ UK /spˈɑːklɪŋ/ sparkling

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.shining with many small, bright flashes of light.

    adj.reflecting light in a series of brief, bright flashes.

    Simple

    The sparkling blue water of the swimming pool looked very inviting in the sun.

    In context

    The sunlight hit the fresh snow, creating a sparkling landscape that stretched toward the horizon.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary Cooking

    adj.containing many small bubbles of gas.

    adj.containing dissolved carbon dioxide that forms bubbles; effervescent.

    Simple

    Would you like still or sparkling water with your meal?

    In context

    The waiter served a chilled sparkling cider that complemented the acidity of the green apple tart.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.full of energy, intelligence, and wit.

    adj.demonstrating high levels of wit, vivacity, or brilliance in social interaction.

    Simple

    She has a sparkling personality and always makes people laugh at parties.

    In context

    The dinner conversation was sparkling, ranging from lighthearted anecdotes to deep philosophical debates.

    vivaciouswittyanimated
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate Informal Cooking

    n.a drink that has bubbles in it, like sparkling water or wine.

    n.a carbonated beverage, typically referring to sparkling water or sparkling wine in an elliptical sense.

    Simple

    I'll just have a glass of sparkling with a slice of lemon, please.

    In context

    After the ceremony, the guests gathered on the terrace for a glass of sparkling and some light appetizers.


By surface analysis, sparkle + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated