Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Shine.

2. (a.) Emitting light, esp. in a continuous manner; radiant; as, shining lamps; also, bright by the reflection of light; as, shining armor.

3. (a.) Splendid; illustrious; brilliant; distinguished; conspicuous; as, a shining example of charity.

4. (a.) Having the surface smooth and polished; -- said of leaves, the surfaces of shells, etc.

5. (n.) Emission or reflection of light.