Flash: meaning, definitions and examples

Brief appearance of light, used in photography, sudden moments, or electronics.

• The camera flash temporarily blinded her
• There was a flash of lightning during the storm

Specific flash of light used in photography to provide illumination when taking a picture.

• The photographer's photoflash helped capture clear images in low light
• Photoflashes can sometimes disturb animals

General term for illumination from any source, not necessarily brief.

• She turned on the light to read a book
• The morning light filled the room

Used in reference to a flashing light that blinks at regular intervals; often used in entertainment settings like concerts or nightclubs.

• The strobe lights at the concert created an exciting atmosphere
• Be careful with strobe lights as they can trigger seizures in sensitive individuals

Often used to describe a sudden burst of light or a quick, impressive display of something. It can refer to both literal and figurative meanings.

• There was a flash of lightning during the storm.
• She had a flash of insight and solved the problem instantly.

Used to describe a small, brief flash of light, often reflecting off a surface. It's generally associated with something shiny or metallic.

• The glint of the sun on the water was beautiful.
• She saw a glint of mischief in his eyes.

Commonly refers to a small, fiery particle or a brief flash of light resulting from friction or an electric charge. It can also metaphorically describe the initiation of an idea or a feeling.

• He saw a spark fly as he struck the match.
• Their conversation sparked her interest in science.

Describes a sudden and intense occurrence, typically associated with something breaking open or exploding. It can be used in both literal and figurative senses.

• The balloon burst with a loud noise.
• He felt a burst of excitement when he won the prize.

Typically used to describe a quick and bright burst of light, often seen in photography or during storms.

• The camera flash made everyone blink.
• There was a flash of lightning during the storm.

Describes a steady, often soft and warm light, like that from a candle or a computer screen.

• The fireplace gave off a gentle glow.
• The glow of the monitor was the only light in the room.

Refers to multiple small, bright flashes of light, often seen in reflective surfaces or items like diamonds or water.

• Her earrings sparkled in the sunlight.
• The sea sparkled under the midday sun.

Commonly used to describe a steady and focused stream of light, often from a source like a flashlight or the sun.

• A beam of light shone through the window.
• The lighthouse's beam guided the ships safely to shore.