sunshine
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈʌnʃaɪn/
US
- /ˈsənˌʃaɪn/
Description
- Bright light
- Happiness
- Warmth
Sunshine is the bright light and gentle warmth that come from the sun, especially on a clear day. But in everyday English, it often means more than weather. It can suggest joy, hope, and a happy feeling. If someone is cheerful and kind, people may call them "a ray of sunshine." If a hard day suddenly feels better because of a kind word or a small good moment, that too can feel like a little sunshine.
So the word moves easily between the real world and the emotional one. It can describe the light outside your window, but it can also describe the warmth someone brings into your life.
Sunshine refers to the bright light and warmth provided by the sun, but its meaning extends far beyond science. It has become deeply embedded in the English language as a symbol of happiness, positivity, and good fortune.
Literally, sunshine is essential for life on Earth, providing energy for plants and influencing weather patterns. You might describe a beautiful day with phrases like "bathed in sunshine" or "golden sunshine." However, the word frequently appears figuratively. We use it to describe people who are cheerful and uplifting—"He's a ray of sunshine!"—implying they bring joy to those around them. It can also represent moments of happiness amidst difficulty: "Even during the storm, she found a little sunshine in her friend's visit."
The phrase "all sunshine and roses" describes an overly optimistic or unrealistic view of life, suggesting everything is perfect when it isn't. Conversely, to "bring sunshine into someone's day" means to cheer them up or make them feel better. Whether you are talking about the actual light from the sun, a cheerful person, or a moment of joy, "sunshine" evokes warmth, brightness, and a little bit of golden goodness in our lives.
Examples
- 1
Relaxing outdoors
We sat in the garden and enjoyed the warm sunshine.
- 2
Weather change
After three days of rain, it was good to see some sunshine again.
- 3
Apartment light
This apartment gets plenty of sunshine in the morning.
- 4
Weather forecast
The forecast says there should be a bit of sunshine later this afternoon.
- 5
Cheerful presence
Her smile brought a little sunshine into the room.
Phrase
bring sunshine into + place/situation
make it feel happier
- 6
Friendly address
Morning, sunshine. You're up early.
Usage
sunshine can be used as a friendly way to address someone
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sunshinenoun