sheen
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ʃiːn/
KK: /ʃin/
noun
Definition
A shiny or glossy appearance on a surface, often seen in materials like fabric or metal.
Example
The car had a beautiful sheen after being polished.
Conversation
I love how that dress has such a beautiful sheen to it.
Yeah, it really catches the light nicely!
It reminds me of satin, especially under candlelight.
Exactly! That kind of sheen makes everything look so elegant.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
luster
gloss
shine
Antonyms
dullness
matte
flat
verb
Definition
To shine or reflect light in a bright and smooth way.
Example
The polished surface began to sheen in the sunlight.
Tense Forms
Past: sheened
Past Participle: sheened
Conversation
Have you seen how the sunlight makes the water sheen today?
Yeah, it's beautiful! It looks like a million tiny diamonds.
I love when it sparkles like that; it really brightens the day.
Root Explanation
The word 'sheen' originates from Old English 'scīene', meaning bright or beautiful. It refers to a soft glow or luster, often associated with light reflecting off a surface.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'bright' or 'beautiful' — that's what 'sheen' means, a soft glow or luster.
Visually Confused Words
usheen
shen
seen
shoneen
shebeen
schepen
husheen
dasheen