Lustre (also spelled luster, though I prefer the British spelling lustre) is the sparking, bright shine that a reflective surface gives off. Lustre is a sheen and glow that occurs without glitter (shocking, but oh so true). Eyes have a lustre to them, as do crystals, gems, and seashells. Fur can have a lustre, as can hair (hello shampoo commercials!) and nails. Lustre is a lovely word and one that I have long taken for granted since it’s one of those words I’ve just always seemed to know. It’s always amazing to delve a bit more into a word like lustre and reconnect with it’s definition and origin (Early 16th century: from French lustre, from Italian lustro, from the verb lustrare, from Latin lustrare ‘illuminate’ ~ neat, isn’t it?!).
Nature is filled with various lustrous objects and delights!
Which spelling do you prefer, lustre or luster?
*Check out the Word Nerd Index and my Word Nerd Pinterest Board for other superb words!
** If there’s a word you’d like to see added to the Word Nerd roster, please feel free to drop me a line or suggest it in the comments – I love feedback and recommendations!
Lawhimsy 