Word that describes something that glows with light, but cannot break the barrier of darkness


What word could be used to describe a glowing object or mass that though it has a quality of brilliance, does not throw light to illume anything? Say, "The mysterious ball ____ with a self-contained light." or of a city that though full of lights and vividness cannot extend its glow past the darkness of night?



Answer



Glimmer: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glimmer


May carry a connotation of faintness that you don't intend>


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