DictionaryAI

lightning

LYT-ning/ˈlaɪt.nɪŋ/

5 meanings of lightning

Practice

  1. 1
    noununcountable
    The bright flash of electricity in the sky during a storm.

    Lightning hit the barn and started a fire.

    A golfer was hurt by lightning on the course.

    UsageWrite lightning (not incorrect: lightening). Say struck by lightning.

    Note
  2. 2
    very quickadjective
    Very fast or sudden, as if moving as quickly as lightning.

    The goalie made a lightning save in the last minute.

    She gave a lightning answer before anyone else could speak.

    UsageSay lightning reflexes or at lightning speed.

    Similarrapid, swift, quick, sudden

    Oppositeslow

  3. 3
    fast movernounfigurativelyuncountable
    Someone or something that moves very, very fast.

    Our new puppy is lightning when she chases a ball.

    On skates, my little sister is pure lightning.

    UsageSay she is lightning or pure lightning.

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    make flashesverbnonstandardchildishintransitive
    To make flashes of lightning, with it as the subject.

    "Come inside, it's lightninging!" Mom shouted from the porch.

    The little boy asked, "Is it going to lightning again?"

    UsageIn formal writing, say there was lightning.

  2. 5
    ginnounarchaicuncountable
    Gin, a strong alcohol drink.
    Note

Practice

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Origin

Made from light(e)n + -ing.

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 1 fact