easy
The table had a smooth gloss after polishing.
What does Gloss mean?
Gloss is shine, or a short explanation.
Dictionary definition
A shine on a surface; as a verb, to make shiny or explain a word briefly.
Example sentences
Gloss in a sentence
medium
The teacher added a gloss to explain the old word.
hard
Gloss can refer to a shiny finish or a brief note that explains a term.
Writing practice
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Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Gloss
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does gloss mean?
GLOSS means gloss is shine, or a short explanation.
Practice 2
Which sentence uses gloss correctly?
The correct sentence uses gloss in a way that matches its meaning.
Practice 3
Which word is closest in meaning to gloss?
Shine is the closest match for gloss in this context.
Practice complete
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Gloss
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GLOSS
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WordGloss.
Partnoun, verb.
MeaningGloss is shine, or a short explanation.
ExampleExample: The table had a smooth gloss after polishing.
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Synonyms
Words like Gloss
Antonyms
Opposite words
dullnessLack of shine.
confusionLack of clear understanding.
Synonym practice
Want to practice gloss synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The gloss on the sticker made it shine," then compare close word choices. Practice gloss synonyms.
Word family
Gloss word family
Related words
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Student support
Understand Gloss
Hint for students
Gloss is shine, or a short explanation.
Common mix-up
Gloss does not always mean shine. In some sentences, it means short explanation.
Try it in class or at home
Write two short sentences that use gloss in different ways. Underline the clue words that show which meaning is being used. Example: The teacher added a gloss to explain the old word. Clue words: teacher, added, explain. Ask: Which meaning of gloss does my sentence show?
Teacher prompt
Ask students to compare meanings of gloss in this model sentence: "The teacher added a gloss to explain the old word." Which meaning fits, and what context clues prove it?
Learning activities
Practice Gloss and explore more word games
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Sentence Builder
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