adj Uncommon

glossy

GLO-see

Glossy (adj) means having a smooth, shiny surface. Example: “She printed the photos on glossy paper.”

adj

Having a smooth, shiny surface.

"She printed the photos on glossy paper."

"His glossy black hair caught the light."

Attractive on the surface but lacking real substance.

"The ad campaign was all glossy imagery and no real information."

noun

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 notes

In plain EnglishShiny and smooth, or (of media) polished and stylish on the surface.

Common pairings

glossy finish glossy magazine glossy photo

Word forms

glossier comparative, glossies plural, glossiest superlative

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She printed the photos on _____ paper.

Etymology

From "gloss" (shine) plus the adjective ending "-y."

Synonyms

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glacé glassy lacquerlike satiny sheeny sleek slickered splendent vitreous

Antonyms

flat glossless matte speckled speckly

Related words

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Rhymes for glossy

bossy

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.

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