Shininess refers to the quality of a surface that reflects light, giving it a bright and glossy appearance. This characteristic is often seen in materials like metals, glass, and polished stones. The degree of shininess can vary, with some surfaces appearing highly reflective while others may have a dull finish. In scientific terms, shininess is influenced by factors such as surface smoothness and the angle of light incidence. For example, a mirror has a high level of shininess due to its smooth surface, which reflects light effectively, while a matte surface absorbs more light and appears less shiny.