'gleam' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'glǣm', where 'glǣm' meant 'brightness or splendor'.

'glǣm' changed from Old English word 'glǣm' and eventually became the modern English word 'gleam'.

Initially, it meant 'brightness or splendor', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a brief or faint appearance of light'.