As a verb, it means to give off light or to reflect light brightly. As a noun, it refers to a bright appearance or gloss on a surface.
From Old English 'scīnan' meaning 'to shed light, be radiant', related to German 'scheinen'. It comes from an ancient root about shining or appearing.
We use 'shine' for both light and talent—someone can 'shine' in math or music, as if they’re giving off mental light. That metaphor is so strong that we barely notice we’re treating success like brightness.
Metaphors of 'letting someone shine' have sometimes been applied to supportive roles expected of women, while men were encouraged to shine publicly. At the same time, women who 'shone' too brightly in male-dominated fields were sometimes punished socially or professionally.
Use 'shine' for achievements and visibility across all genders, and avoid suggesting that some people should stay in the background so others can shine.
["excel","stand out","be visible","be recognized"]
When celebrating excellence, explicitly recognize women and gender-diverse people whose opportunities to 'shine' have been constrained or whose contributions were hidden.
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