Brilliance demands explanation (5)
I believe the answer is:
gloss
This clue could be a double definition.
'brilliance' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both human attributes as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'explanation' is the second definition.
(I know that gloss is a type of explanation)
'demands' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for gloss that I've seen before include "translation" , "Render plausible" , "High shine" , "Superficial appearance" , "marginal note" .)