adj
Uncommon
glossy
GLO-see
Glossy (adj) means having a smooth, shiny surface. Example: “She printed the photos on glossy paper.”
adj
1
Having a smooth, shiny surface.
"She printed the photos on glossy paper."
"His glossy black hair caught the light."
2
Attractive on the surface but lacking real substance.
"The ad campaign was all glossy imagery and no real information."
noun
1
A magazine printed on shiny, high-quality paper, especially about fashion or celebrities.
"Her interview appeared in one of the glossies this month."
How to use glossy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShiny and smooth, or (of media) polished and stylish on the surface.
Common pairings
glossy finish
glossy magazine
glossy photo
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like glossy.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- glossies
- Comparative
- glossier
- Superlative
- glossiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She printed the photos on _____ paper.
Etymology
From "gloss" (shine) plus the adjective ending "-y."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for glossy
See all rhymes for glossy →Frequently asked questions
What does “glossy” mean?
The word “glossy” means having a smooth, shiny surface. In plain terms, shiny and smooth, or (of media) polished and stylish on the surface.
How do you pronounce “glossy”?
“Glossy” is pronounced GLO-see (/ˈɡlɔsi/ in IPA).
How do you use “glossy” in a sentence?
Here is “glossy” used in a sentence: “She printed the photos on glossy paper.”
What is another word for “glossy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “glossy” include glacé, glassy, lacquerlike, satiny, sheeny and sleek.
What is the opposite of “glossy”?
The opposite of “glossy” — its antonyms — are flat, glossless, matte, speckled and speckly.
What part of speech is “glossy”?
Depending on how it is used, “glossy” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “glossy” a common word?
“Glossy” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “glossy” have?
“Glossy” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having a smooth, shiny surface.
