# sparkly

/ˈspɑɹkɫi/ (US) · /spˈɑːkli/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sparkly
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

shining with many small, bright points of light. You use this to describe things like diamonds, stars, or glitter.

For teachers: reflecting or emitting small, intermittent flashes of light. Often used to describe surfaces with glitter, gemstones, or celestial bodies.

## Examples

- She wore a sparkly dress to the party.
- The fresh snow looked sparkly under the bright morning sun.
- The designer chose a sparkly fabric that caught the stage lights, ensuring the performer remained visible even from the back of the theater.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'look' or 'be'.

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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.