läikivad

Läikivad is an Estonian adjective meaning glossy or shiny. It describes surfaces, finishes, or appearances that reflect light with a smooth, polished look. The form läikivad is the plural nominative form of the adjective, used to modify plural nouns, for example, läikivad pinnad (glossy surfaces) or läikivad juuksed (shiny hair). The singular form is läikiv.

Etymology and usage notes: läikiv derives from the stem related to gleam or shine in Estonian. The word is commonly employed in everyday language as well as in descriptive writing to convey a high degree of surface reflectivity or brightness, as produced by polishing, varnish, moisture, or natural sheen. It can apply to a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, glass, fabric, and natural elements.

In grammar, läikivad follows standard Estonian adjective declension, agreeing in number with the noun it modifies. It is often contrasted with other descriptive terms such as sädelev (sparkling) or matt (matt), depending on the degree and quality of sheen the speaker intends to convey.

See also: gloss, sheen, surface finish.