Lite: meaning, definitions and examples

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lite

 

[ laɪt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

describing weight

The term 'lite' is often used to refer to food or drink that has reduced calories or fat content. It can also imply a less intense version of a product, such as 'lite beer' or 'lite salad dressing.' The usage of this term suggests a healthier or lighter alternative to the regular version, appealing to consumers who are conscious about their dietary choices. While it signifies lower content, it does not necessarily mean that the product is calorie-free.

Synonyms

diet, light, low-calorie

Examples of usage

  • I chose the lite version of the dressing to cut back on calories.
  • This lite beer has fewer calories than regular beer.
  • She prefers lite snacks while watching her weight.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing simplicity

In a different context, 'lite' can refer to a simpler, less complex, or more minimalist version of something. This usage is often seen in technology and software, where a 'lite' version provides essential features without the extra functionalities. It is appealing to users who seek efficiency without unnecessary complications.

Synonyms

basic, minimal, simple

Examples of usage

  • The app comes in a lite version for basic tasks.
  • I downloaded the lite software to save space on my device.

Translations

Translations of the word "lite" in other languages:

🇵🇹 leve

🇮🇳 हल्का

🇩🇪 leicht

🇮🇩 ringan

🇺🇦 легкий

🇵🇱 lekki

🇯🇵 軽い (karui)

🇫🇷 léger

🇪🇸 ligero

🇹🇷 hafif

🇰🇷 가벼운 (gabyeoun)

🇸🇦 خفيف (khafif)

🇨🇿 lehký

🇸🇰 ľahký

🇨🇳 轻 (qīng)

🇸🇮 lahek

🇮🇸 létt

🇰🇿 жеңіл

🇬🇪 მსუბუქი (msubuki)

🇦🇿 yüngül

🇲🇽 ligero

Word origin

The word 'lite' emerged in the United States during the 1960s as an alternative spelling of 'light,' particularly in marketing contexts. Its usage started gaining popularity with the rise of health and diet trends. Initially, it was associated with products that claimed to have lower calories, fat, or sugar content, primarily in the food and beverage industries. The spelling 'lite' was often adopted to attract consumers who were looking for lighter, healthier options. Over the years, the term expanded beyond dietary products and began to encompass a broader range of applications, including software and apps that offer simplified versions, thus appealing to a modern audience that values efficiency and simplicity. Despite its informal origins, 'lite' has solidified its place in everyday language and marketing, emphasizing a lifestyle choice for health-conscious consumers.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,987, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.