Light bulb

/ˈlaɪtˌbʌlb/ noun

noun ·Rare ·Advanced level

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    An evacuated glass bulb containing a metal filament which is heated by electrical resistance to produce light.
  2. 2
    electric lamp consisting of a transparent or translucent glass housing containing a wire filament (usually tungsten) that emits light when heated by electricity wordnet
  3. 3
    An article that resembles such a bulb and converts electricity to light by any process. broadly

    "a fluorescent light bulb"

  4. 4
    Used in reference to the sudden arrival of a realization, an inspiration, an idea, or the like. figuratively

    "a light-bulb moment"

Example

More examples

"Figuratively speaking, a light-bulb flashed over Galvin's head early this year, and in March–along […]"

Etymology

From light + bulb First attested in 1885.