Looking up...
light
/laɪt/
illumination or brightness
The room was filled with soft light from the window.
The gentle brightness from the window illuminated the room.
general
illumination or brightness
She turned on the light to read the book.
She switched on the illumination to read the book.
Can refer to natural (sunlight) or artificial (lamp) sources.
general
not heavy in weight
The suitcase was surprisingly light.
The suitcase was unexpectedly not heavy.
Opposite of 'heavy' when describing weight.
general
to ignite or set on fire
He lit a candle before dinner.
He ignited a candle before the meal.
Commonly used with 'match' or 'candle'.
Collocations
light upto illuminate or brightenlight as a featherextremely light in weightlight a fireto start a fire
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'light' depends heavily on context. Pay attention to whether it's used as a noun, adjective, or verb.
Gold Rule
Noun vs. Adjective
As a noun, 'light' refers to illumination. As an adjective, it describes something not heavy.
Word Origin
Old English 'lēoht', from Proto-Germanic 'leuh-tom', related to 'lēoht' (light) and 'lēohtian' (to shine).
Usage Notes
Can function as a noun, adjective, or verb depending on context. The meaning is often clear from context.
Word Breakdown
light
illumination or brightness
rootEnglish Dictionary