lightning

English

/ˈlaɪt.nɪŋ/, /ˈlaɪt.nɪŋ/

noun
Definitions
  • A flash of light produced by short-duration, high-voltage discharge of electricity within a cloud, between clouds, or between a cloud and the earth.
  • A discharge of this kind.
  • (figuratively) Anything that moves very fast.
  • The act of making bright, or the state of being made bright; enlightenment; brightening, as of the mental powers.

Etymology

Affix from English lighten.

Origin

English

lighten

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms