Theme: Things That Shine

From polished surfaces to glowing objects, today's words are all things that can shine.

9 themed words All 26 letters covered Vowels shown in gold Consonants hidden in blue
1
  A  
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  1. It can be polished to create a glossy surface.
  2. It is often used on cars, floors, and furniture.
  3. It can form a protective coating.
  4. Buffing it can produce a noticeable shine.
Reveal answer
W A X
Background information
Wax is commonly applied to surfaces to protect them and create a smooth, reflective finish.
2
  U    
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  1. It produces light when switched on.
  2. It is commonly fitted into lamps and fixtures.
  3. It can brighten a dark room.
  4. Modern versions often use LED technology.
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B U L B
Background information
A light bulb produces artificial light and is one of the most familiar objects associated with brightness.
3
  E   E  
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  1. A precious stone polished to catch and reflect light.
  2. It is often set into decorative pieces.
  3. Cutting and polishing can increase its brilliance.
  4. Diamonds, rubies, and emeralds are examples.
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J E W E L
Background information
Jewels are prized partly for the way polished gemstones reflect and refract light.
4
  U A      
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  1. It is a common crystalline mineral.
  2. Its crystals can have a glassy appearance.
  3. Some varieties are used in jewelry.
  4. It occurs naturally in many colors.
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Q U A R T Z
Background information
Quartz is a widespread mineral whose crystals often have a bright, glass-like luster.
5
      O   E
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  1. A shiny metallic finish often seen on cars and fixtures.
  2. It has a bright, mirror-like appearance.
  3. It is frequently used as a decorative coating.
  4. It can also help protect metal surfaces.
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C H R O M E
Background information
Chrome plating is valued for its highly reflective appearance as well as its resistance to corrosion.
6
  I     E  
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  1. It is a precious metal with a bright appearance.
  2. It is used in jewelry, coins, and decorative objects.
  3. Polishing restores its reflective surface.
  4. It can tarnish when exposed to air over time.
Reveal answer
S I L V E R
Background information
Silver has one of the highest reflectivities of any metal and develops a brilliant shine when polished.
7
  I   E      
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  1. It creates its own light.
  2. It is often seen outdoors after dark.
  3. Its glow is produced by bioluminescence.
  4. It uses flashes of light for communication.
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F I R E F L Y
Background information
Fireflies produce light through a chemical reaction in their bodies, a natural phenomenon called bioluminescence.
8
  O       O I  
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  1. It is made from a valuable yellow metal.
  2. Its surface can gleam when polished.
  3. Historic examples are prized by collectors.
  4. It has been used as money and a store of value.
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G O L D C O I N
Background information
Gold coins have been produced by many civilizations and are known for gold's distinctive metallic luster.
9
    A       E  
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  1. A handheld firework that gives off bright, glittering sparks.
  2. It is often used during celebrations.
  3. It burns gradually along a coated wire or stick.
  4. It creates a shower of small points of light.
Reveal answer
S P A R K L E R
Background information
Sparklers are fireworks designed to burn slowly while producing a bright shower of sparks.

Shining Facts

✨ Brilliant Reflection
Polished silver is exceptionally reflective and has long been used where a bright metallic finish is desired.
💎 Crystal Sparkle
The way a gemstone is cut can strongly affect how it reflects and refracts light.
🌟 Living Light
Fireflies create light through bioluminescence, producing very little heat compared with many artificial light sources.
🎇 Celebration Glow
Sparklers contain materials that burn while throwing off bright, glowing particles.