Definition

A shiny or reflective quality on a surface, often seen in ceramics, giving a metallic brilliance.

Example

The vase had a beautiful reflet that caught the light perfectly.

Conversation

Have you seen that new pottery shop in town?

Yeah, I went there last weekend! The pieces have such a beautiful reflet.

I know! It makes the colors look so vibrant and alive.

Absolutely, I might go back to get something for my kitchen.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reflet → The word comes from the Old French 'reflet', meaning reflection or to bend back. It is derived from the Latin 'reflectere', where 're-' (meaning back) and 'flectere' (meaning to bend) combine to describe the action of bending back light or an image. Thus, 'reflet' refers to the image or light that is reflected back.

Memory Tip

Think of light 'bending back' ('reflectere') to remember that 'reflet' means a reflection.

Visually Confused Words