Shimmer

To shimmer is to reflect a soft, tremulous, and often diffused light, creating a flickering or wavering appearance. This optical effect often suggests a subtle and delicate beauty, hinting at movement or a change in perspective. The intensity can vary, ranging from a faint glow to a more pronounced, vibrant display. It implies a surface or object that is not perfectly still or uniformly lit, giving an impression of fluidity or an almost ethereal quality. The term can be applied to a wide variety of subjects, from natural phenomena like the ocean's surface under moonlight to manufactured items like fabrics and cosmetics. Essentially, it's the gentle dance of light on a surface.

Shimmer meaning with examples

• The moonlight caused the water to shimmer, creating a path of reflected silver that stretched across the lake. The gentle breeze added to the effect, causing the shimmering to dance and shift with every ripple. It was a serene and beautiful sight, a perfect end to the day, capturing your attention, and leaving a lasting impression.
• Her evening gown was made of a silk that would shimmer in the candlelight, reflecting the soft glow and creating an aura of elegance and sophistication. The movement of the fabric enhanced the shimmer, as the folds and gathers caught the light. It was the perfect choice for the occasion, and showed a sophisticated air.
• In the distance, the desert air seemed to shimmer with heat, distorting the landscape and making it difficult to distinguish the actual form of the objects. This mirage caused the appearance of an oasis, and fueled the travelers desires. It was a deceptive but understandable effect of temperature differences.
• The artist used a special paint that caused the painting's surface to shimmer subtly, adding depth and visual interest to the artwork. Depending on the lighting, the colors would appear to change, further enhancing the effect. It was a well constructed painting, drawing the viewers eye to it.