Glance
(Noun & Verb) | Pronunciation: /ɡlæns/
Definition & Meaning
The word “glance” has different meanings depending on its usage.
- As a noun – A quick or brief look at something.
- As a verb – To take a quick look at something or someone, often without focusing for long.
💡 Did You Know? The phrase “steal a glance” means to look at someone secretly or without them noticing!
Word Origin & History
- Etymology: Derived from Middle English “glenten”, meaning “to shine or flash,” which later evolved into the meaning of a quick look.
- Historical Usage: First recorded in the 16th century, used to describe both a brief look and something that deflects or bounces off (like light or an object).
- Cultural Influence: Often used in literature and poetry to describe fleeting moments of eye contact or observation.
📖 Example: She took a glance at the clock and realized she was late.
Synonyms & Antonyms
🔹 Synonyms (words with similar meanings)
For glance (noun):
- Peek
- Glimpse
- Quick look
- Flash
For glance (verb):
- Glimpse
- Scan
- Peek
- Skim
🔻 Antonyms (opposite meanings)
For glance (noun):
- Stare
- Gaze
- Observation
- Scrutiny
For glance (verb):
- Stare
- Examine
- Inspect
- Observe carefully
💡 Word Tip: A glance is always quick—if you look for a long time, it’s a stare!
Example Sentences
✅ He glanced at his phone before entering the meeting.
✅ With just a glance, she knew something was wrong.
✅ The sunlight glanced off the mirror and brightened the room.
📌 Challenge: Can you use “glance” in a sentence? Share it in the comments!
Related Words & Phrases
These words are commonly associated with “glance”:
- Glimpse
- Peek
- Stare
- Scan
Example: The phrase “at a glance” means understanding something quickly without deep analysis.
Usage Trends & Popularity
🧐 Trending Now: People often glance at notifications on their phones throughout the day.
📢 Discuss: Is it rude to glance at your phone during a conversation?
Fun Activities & Challenges
🔠 Word Puzzle: Unscramble this word → C G N A L E
🧠 Quick Quiz:
💭 What does “steal a glance” mean?
A) To look secretly ✅
B) To take something
C) To stare at something for a long time
✍ Word Story Challenge: Write a short paragraph using “glance” creatively!
User Contributions & Comments
💬 Share Your Thoughts: Do you often glance at your watch when waiting for something?
📢 Join the discussion below!
Advanced Learning & Fun Facts
Idioms & Phrases
- “At a glance” – Immediately or quickly.
- “Glance over” – To skim through something briefly.
Scientific & Psychological Use
- Studies show that glancing at something multiple times helps memory retention.
- The average person glances at their phone over 100 times per day!
Famous Quotes
“One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person.”
— Carl Sagan
💡 Did You Know? The human eye can process an image in just 13 milliseconds—that’s faster than a blink!