brilliant

Definition

Shining brightly.

Etymology

Borrowed from French brillant (late 17th century), present participle of the verb briller, from Italian brillare, possibly from Latin berillus, beryllus (“a beryl, gem, eyeglass”), from Ancient Greek βήρυλλος (bḗrullos, “beryl”).

Example Sentences

• "the brilliant lights along the promenade"
• "butterflies with brilliant blue wings"
• "The actor's performance in the play was simply brilliant."

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