noun
- the form of electromagnetic radiation that acts upon the retina of the eye, optic nerve, etc., making sight possible: this energy is transmitted in a vacuum at a velocity of 299,792,458 meters per second (c. 186,000 miles per second)
- a form of radiant energy similar to this, but not acting on the normal retina, as ultraviolet and infrared radiation
- the rate of flow of light radiation with respect to the sense of sight: it is measured in lumens
- the sensation that light stimulates in the organs of sight
- brightness; illumination, often of a specified kind: the dim light of a candle
- a source of light, as the sun, a lamp, a light bulb, etc.
- traffic light
- the light from the sun; daylight or dawn
- a thing by means of which something can be started burning: a light for a cigar
- the means by which light is let in; window or windowpane
- mental illumination; knowledge or information; enlightenment: to shed light on the past
- spiritual inspiration
- public knowledge or view: to bring new facts to light
- the way in which something is seen; aspect: presented in a favorable light
- facial expression showing a mental or emotional state: a light of recognition in his eyes
- a person whose brilliant record makes him or her an example for others; outstanding figure: one of the shining lights of the school
- the quality suggesting light created in a painting, drawing, etc., esp. in certain areas
- such an area
Origin:
ME liht < OE lēoht, akin to Ger licht < IE base *leuk-, to shine, bright > Gr leukos, white, L lux & lumen, light, lucere, to shine, luna, moon, Welsh llug, gleam
adjective
- having light; not dark; bright
- pale in color; whitish; fair
Origin:
ME liht < OE leoht
adverb
not brightly; in a pale way: a light blue color
transitive verb lighted or lit, lighting
- to set on fire; ignite: to light a bonfire
- to cause to give off light: to light a lamp
- to give light to; furnish with light; illuminate: lamps light the streets
- to brighten; animate
- to show the way to by giving light: a beacon lights the ships to harbor
Origin:
ME lighten < OE lihtan