lightning

[ˈlaɪtnɪŋ]

lightning Definition

the occurrence of a natural electrical discharge of very short duration and high voltage between a cloud and the ground or within a cloud, accompanied by a bright flash and typically also thunder.

Using lightning: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lightning" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The lightning struck the tree and set it on fire.

• Example

  We could see the lightning in the distance but couldn't hear the thunder yet.

• Example

  The storm was so intense that the lightning was almost constant.

lightning Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lightning

• thunderbolt
• bolt
• flash
• electrical discharge

Phrases with lightning

• like lightning

  very quickly

  Example

  He ran like lightning to catch the bus.

• a bolt from the blue/lightning

  a sudden and unexpected event

  Example

  The news of his death was a bolt from the blue.

• lightning rod

  a person or thing that attracts criticism or controversy

  Example

  The CEO became a lightning rod for criticism after the company's poor performance.

📌

Summary: lightning in Brief

Lightning [ˈlaɪtnɪŋ] is a natural electrical discharge of high voltage between a cloud and the ground or within a cloud, accompanied by a bright flash and typically thunder. It can strike objects and cause damage or fire. Phrases like 'like lightning' and 'a bolt from the blue/lightning' denote suddenness and unexpectedness.