nonglossy

Nonglossy is an adjective used to describe surfaces or finishes that lack a distinct gloss or shine. A nonglossy surface reflects little specular light and tends toward diffuse reflection, resulting in a flat or matte appearance. The term is common in manufacturing, printing, and design to distinguish from glossy finishes that have high reflectivity.

In coatings and paints, nonglossy finishes include matte, eggshell, and satin sheens, depending on the level of light diffusion. The term is often used interchangeably with matte or dull, though not all nonglossy finishes are truly matte; some may have a soft sheen.

Printing and papers: Nonglossy papers reduce glare, improve legibility of text and accuracy of color reproduction under bright light. Photography and displays: Nonglossy coatings minimize reflections on screens or prints, aiding visibility in bright environments.

Measurement: Gloss is measured with gloss meters; nonglossy correlates with low gloss units, and standards vary by industry.

Pros and cons: Advantages include glare reduction, conceal surface defects, and easier to write on some substrates. Disadvantages include reduced color vibrancy and potential difficulty cleaning or fingerprint visibility on some textures.

Relation to synonyms and hyphenation: The word is often written nonglossy or non-glossy; usage varies by style guide.

History and usage: The term appears in product specifications, design guides, and industry catalogs, and is used across printing, packaging, automotive finishes, and textiles.