light bulb

noun

1. an electric light.

light bulb

noun

1. a glass bulb containing a gas, such as argon or nitrogen, at low pressure and enclosing a thin metal filament that emits light when an electric current is passed through it Sometimes shortened tobulb

Word History and Origins

Origin of light bulb¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

“I noticed that my kids just didn’t differentiate. It was just such a light bulb moment for me. This is how it should be. More exposure to the full spectrum of humanity.”

From Los Angeles Times

Don’t put decorations near open flames or other heat sources, such as light bulbs and heaters.

From Los Angeles Times

“So the final time, I see an older guy sitting in his cell, and a light bulb went in my head,” Tejada said.

From Los Angeles Times

Johnston recorded himself cracking a joke as rioters pushed an orange ladder toward police in the tunnel, saying, “We’re going to get those light bulbs fixed!”

From Los Angeles Times

Sometimes, the shapes in “Pluriverse assembly” suggest familiar objects — a simple light bulb, for instance, or a changing typology of ancient Greek vases, like an amphora or an oenochoe jug.

From Los Angeles Times