flashlight

[ flash-lahyt ]

noun

1. alsocalledcomma especially British, torch. a small, portable electric lamp powered by dry batteries, LEDs, or a tiny generator.
2. a light that flashes, such as a lighthouse beacon.
3. any source of artificial light as used in flash photography.

flashlight

/ ˈflæʃˌlaɪt /

noun

1. a small portable electric lamp powered by one or more dry batteries Also called (in Britain and certain other countries)torch
2. photog the brief bright light emitted by an electronic flash unit Sometimes shortened toflash
3. a light that flashes, used for signalling, in a lighthouse, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of flashlight¹

First recorded in 1885–90; flash + light ¹

Example Sentences

His Birthright trip, which departed Jan. 4, felt as if “someone took a flashlight and shined it” on him regarding his notions of Israel and “the true history behind it.”

From Slate

I turned a flashlight on the top of the cliff above us where the redwood forest started.

From Los Angeles Times

He can’t see me, as long as I keep the flashlight on him.

From Los Angeles Times

After an eternity with me keeping it blinded with the flashlight, it got tired of trying to see through that and gave up, stalking off into the woods.

From Los Angeles Times

"Listen for updates and be ready in case you lose electrical power. Keep a battery-powered radio, charged cell phone and flashlight handy."

From Salon

Related Words

• fame
• light
• limelight
• notoriety
• public eye
• publicity