northern lights

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. aurora borealis.

northern lights

plural noun

1. another name for aurora borealis

northern lights

1. See under aurora

northern lights

1. See aurora borealis .

Word History and Origins

Origin of northern lights¹

First recorded in 1715–25

Example Sentences

It’s hard not to consider humankind’s own future in this region-unspecified, newly aquatic land where mountaintops are islands, northern lights dazzle and finger-like towers that seem man-made dot the background.

From Los Angeles Times

Joanne said she had captured other phenomena in the night skies this year including a rocket launch, the northern lights and the milky way.

From BBC

A severe geomagnetic storm could disrupt communications and bring northern lights to parts of California, according to a warning from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

From Los Angeles Times

A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for an aurora borealis — also known as the northern lights — visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California.

From Los Angeles Times

Conditions are right for another round of northern lights in Washington.

From Seattle Times