Brilliantine
/ˌbrɪliənˈtiːn/noun
A shiny grooming product used to smooth and add gloss to hair.
Did you know?Brilliantine was coined in French from the same root as “brilliant,” ultimately tied to the idea of sparkling light, not any occult formula—though its whole purpose was to manufacture a kind of social glamour.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
beryllus
“beryl, a glossy gemstone”
Late Latin
Latin
beryllus
“a precious stone associated with sparkle and clarity”
Old French
French
brilliant
“shining, sparkling”
19th Century
French
brilliantine
“a glossy cosmetic or hair preparation”
Modern English
English
brilliantine
“a hair dressing that gives the hair a sleek shine”
Explore more surprising origins