Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Lightning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚡
Add to dictionary

lightning

[ˈlaɪtnɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

natural phenomenon

Lightning is a sudden electrostatic discharge that occurs during a thunderstorm, producing bright flashes of light and a characteristic sound known as thunder. It is a major atmospheric electrical phenomenon that often occurs with storms and can strike the ground, trees, and structures. Lightning can cause severe damage, including fires and electrical outages, but it also plays a role in the nitrogen cycle in nature. In addition to its natural occurrence, lightning can also be studied scientifically to understand its formation and effects.

Synonyms

bolt, flash, thunderbolt.

Examples of usage

  • The lightning struck the tree, splitting it in half.
  • A bright bolt of lightning illuminated the night sky.
  • Lightning can start wildfires in dry conditions.
Context #2 | Noun

figurative use

In a figurative context, lightning can refer to a sudden illumination or moment of inspiration. This use conveys the idea of a powerful realization or clarity that strikes unexpectedly, similar to how a flash of lightning appears during a storm. It suggests both suddenness and brilliance, often in a creative or intellectual sense.

Synonyms

epiphany, inspiration, revelation.

Examples of usage

  • She felt a lightning of inspiration as she gazed at the painting.
  • The writer experienced a bolt of lightning when he discovered the perfect plot twist.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'lightning' comes from the Old English 'leohte' and the Proto-Germanic word 'lighta,' reflecting light and brightness.
  • In ancient cultures, lightning was often viewed as a sign from the gods, giving rise to various myths and stories across civilizations.

Science

  • Lightning can heat the air around it to temperatures five times hotter than the surface of the sun, causing the air to expand and create sound waves we hear as thunder.
  • A single bolt of lightning can carry up to one billion volts of electricity, illuminating the sky and creating phenomenal displays.
  • There are different types of lightning, including cloud-to-ground, intra-cloud, and cloud-to-cloud, each with unique characteristics.

Cultural References

  • In mythology, Zeus from Greek mythology was depicted as the god who wielded lightning bolts as weapons, symbolizing power and authority.
  • Lightning often appears in literature and movies as a metaphor for sudden insight or inspiration, reflecting its unpredictable nature.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that the unpredictability of lightning can create feelings of awe or fear, affecting how people perceive storms.
  • The sound of thunder often triggers a mix of excitement and anxiety, showcasing how natural phenomena can influence human emotions.

Technology

  • Engineers study lightning to improve safety in buildings, aircraft, and vehicles, working to design systems that can withstand strikes.
  • Lightning detection systems are now used in many countries to warn about nearby storms, helping to ensure public safety during severe weather.

Origin of 'lightning'

The word 'lightning' originates from the Old English term 'leoma,' meaning 'light' or 'brightness.' This evolved into 'lightning' by the 14th century, which combines the Old English 'liht' (meaning light) with the suffix 'ning' that denotes a continuous action or state. Throughout history, lightning has been both feared and revered, often associated with divine power in many cultures. In ancient times, it was attributed to gods such as Zeus and Thor, symbolizing judgment and strength. The scientific understanding of lightning developed over centuries, with Benjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment in the 18th century being a pivotal moment in the study of electricity. As language and understanding evolved, so did the term 'lightning,' reflecting both its natural phenomenon and metaphorical uses in literature and conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,275 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.