glimpse

[glimps]

noun

1. a very brief, passing look, sight, or view.

2. a momentary or slight appearance.

3. a vague idea; inkling.

4. Archaic.,  a gleam, as of light.

verb (used with object)

glimpsed, glimpsing 

1. to catch or take a glimpse of.

   Synonyms: espy, sight, view, spy, spot

verb (used without object)

glimpsed, glimpsing 

1. to look briefly; glance (usually followed byat ).

2. Archaic.,  to come into view; appear faintly.

glimpse

/ ɡlɪmps /

noun

1. a brief or incomplete view

   to catch a glimpse of the sea

2. a vague indication

   he had a glimpse of what the lecturer meant

3. archaic,  a glimmer of light

verb

1. (tr) to catch sight of briefly or momentarily

2. to look (at) briefly or cursorily; glance (at)

3. archaic,  (intr) to shine faintly; glimmer

Usage

Glimpse is sometimes wrongly used where glance is meant: he gave a quick glance (not glimpse ) at his watch

Other Word Forms

• glimpser noun
• unglimpsed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of glimpse¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English glimsen (verb); cognate with Middle High German glimsen “to glow”; akin to glimmer

Word History and Origins

Origin of glimpse¹

C14: of Germanic origin; compare Middle High German glimsen to glimmer

Example Sentences

If you have been anxiously checking the forecast over the last few days in the hope of a glimpse you'll have noticed that it has improved significantly.

From BBC

The report is the latest glimpse into the brutal job market facing workers as layoffs continue in various industries, including healthcare and tech.

From Los Angeles Times

There are other glimpses of the late Queen's dealings with politicians.

From BBC

She sees Sherman’s testimony as a “telling glimpse into the wearing away” of that crucial independence.

From Los Angeles Times

It has historically been difficult for uncapped domestic players to compete in the tournament, but there have been glimpses of brilliance this year to suggest that trend might begin to change.

From BBC

Related Words

• flash 
• glance 
• impression 
• peek 
• sight 
• sighting