English · Nature & Environment
lightning
/ˈlaɪt.nɪŋ/
[/ˈlaɪt.nɪŋ/]
flash of storm electricity
Beginnernoun
Definition
A bright flash of electricity in the sky during a storm.
Example
A jagged bolt of lightning split the dark sky and lit the field for a single instant.
A jagged bolt of lightning split the dark sky and lit the field for a single instant.
Etymology
From Middle English 'lightening', from 'lighten' meaning to make bright.
How & Where It’s Used
'Lightning fast' describes extreme speed; not to be spelled 'lightening'.