'non-glare' is a modern English compound formed by the negative prefix 'non-' (from Latin 'non', meaning 'not') attached to the word 'glare'. It is especially used in 20th century and later contexts to describe coatings, screens, or lighting that prevent glare.

'glare' developed in English from Middle English 'glaren' (to shine, to stare), with older ties to Old Norse forms like 'glara' (to stare, glimmer). The prefix 'non-' comes from Latin 'non' and was adopted into English as a productive negative element; combining them produced compounds such as 'non-glare' in modern usage.

Originally, 'glare' referred to intense shining or staring; over time compounds with 'non-' have been coined to denote the absence of that quality. 'Non-glare' thus came to mean 'not producing glare' (especially for surfaces and visual displays).