Skylight: meaning, definitions and examples

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skylight

 

[ˈskaɪˌlaɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

architecture

An opening in a roof or ceiling fitted with glass or other transparent material in order to admit daylight.

Synonyms

daylighting, roof window.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skylight

Repeating since it's already covered above. See initial example for detailed context and usage.

roof window

Generally means a window installed on the roof, often larger and sometimes operable, which can be used in spaces like attics or lofts. It is usually found in buildings with pitched roofs.

  • The attic was transformed into a cozy room with the addition of a roof window
  • On clear nights, you can see the stars through the roof window
daylighting

Typically refers to the practice or technique of using natural light to illuminate indoor spaces, often through architectural design. It is commonly used in contexts about energy efficiency and building design.

  • Daylighting has significantly improved the mood and productivity of the office workers
  • The architect incorporated daylighting techniques to reduce the need for artificial lighting

Examples of usage

  • The skylight in the attic provided natural light during the day.
  • She loved lying in bed and staring up at the stars through the skylight.
  • The artist studio had a large skylight that illuminated the entire room.
  • The office building had multiple skylights to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
  • The hotel lobby had a beautiful glass skylight that allowed guests to enjoy the sunshine.
Context #2 | Noun

aviation

A light or window in the roof of an aircraft.

Synonyms

aeroplane window, aircraft ceiling window.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
skylight

Used primarily in architecture to describe an overhead window installed in a building's roof or ceiling to allow natural light to enter. Also used in some vehicles to refer to a panoramic glass roof.

  • The room felt much brighter after we installed a skylight.
  • The car's skylight provided a lovely view of the sky above.
aeroplane window

Refers specifically to the small windows found on the passenger section of commercial airplanes. It is generally used when talking about air travel or describing a view from an airplane.

  • Jason leaned over to look out of the aeroplane window as they descended over the city.
  • During the flight, she took several photos through the aeroplane window.
aircraft ceiling window

Not commonly used. This phrase might be understood to describe a window located on the ceiling of an aircraft, but it is not a standard term in aviation.

  • Some luxury jets feature an aircraft ceiling window for an unparalleled view of the skies.

Examples of usage

  • The pilot opened the skylight to let in some fresh air.
  • Passengers could see the clouds through the skylight during the flight.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'sky' from Old Norse 'sky,' meaning cloud, and 'light' from Old English 'leoht,' meaning illumination.
  • The term started being used in English around the 17th century to describe natural light sources in buildings.

Architecture

  • Skylights are popular in eco-friendly buildings, as they can help reduce the need for electric lighting during the day.
  • Designing a skylight requires careful consideration of angles to maximize sunlight while minimizing heat loss.
  • Skylights can create a more open and airy atmosphere, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of indoor spaces.

Cultural References

  • In art and literature, the concept of light often symbolizes knowledge and inspiration, making skylights metaphors for enlightenment.
  • Famous buildings like the Louvre Museum feature large skylights that enhance the visitor experience by using natural light.

Health and Psychology

  • Natural light from skylights has been shown to improve mood and increase productivity in workspaces.
  • Exposure to sunlight can boost Vitamin D levels, which is important for bone health and overall well-being.

Home Design

  • Homeowners often install skylights in kitchens and bathrooms to brighten these spaces without sacrificing privacy.
  • There are various types of skylights, including fixed, vented, and tubular designs, each serving different needs.

Translations

Translations of the word "skylight" in other languages:

🇵🇹 claraboia

🇮🇳 आकाश झरोखा

🇩🇪 Dachfenster

🇮🇩 jendela atap

🇺🇦 мансардне вікно

🇵🇱 świetlik

🇯🇵 天窓 (てんまど)

🇫🇷 lucarne

🇪🇸 tragaluz

🇹🇷 çatı penceresi

🇰🇷 천창 (cheonchang)

🇸🇦 نافذة سقف

🇨🇿 střešní okno

🇸🇰 strešné okno

🇨🇳 天窗 (tiānchuāng)

🇸🇮 strešno okno

🇮🇸 þakgluggi

🇰🇿 шатыр терезесі

🇬🇪 სახურავის ფანჯარა

🇦🇿 dam pəncərəsi

🇲🇽 tragaluz