light

light

light [noun] (BRIGHTNESS)

the brightness that comes from the sun, fire, etc. and from electrical devices, and that allows things to be seen

US /laɪt/ 
UK /laɪt/ 
Example: 

a bright light

Oxford Essential Dictionary

noun

1 (no plural)

pronunciation
The word light sounds like white.

the energy from the sun, a lamp, etc. that allows us to see things:
Strong sunlight is bad for the eyes.
The light was not very good so it was difficult to read.

2 (plural lights) a thing that gives light, for example an electric lamp

which word?
A light can be on or off. You can put, turn or switch a light on, off or out: Turn the lights off before you go to bed.It's getting dark. Shall I switch the light on?

Look also at traffic lights.

3 (plural lights) something, for example a match, that you use to start a cigarette burning:
Do you have a light?

set light to something to make something start to burn

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

light

I. light1 S1 W1 /laɪt/ BrE AmE noun
[Word Family: noun: ↑light, ↑lighter, ↑lighting, ↑lightness; adjective: ↑light, ↑lighted, ↑unlit; verb: ↑light, ↑lighten; adverb: ↑lightly, ↑light]
[Language: Old English; Origin: leoht]
1. NATURAL/ARTIFICIAL LIGHT
a) [uncountable] the energy from the Sun, a flame, a lamp etc that allows you to see things:
We saw a flash of light.
in/by the light of something
Everything looked grey in the dim light of the oil lamp.
I read by the light of the fire.
in/into the light
The man moved forward into the light.
b) [countable] a particular type of light, with its own particular colour, level of brightness etc:
The colours look different in different lights.
2. LAMP/ELECTRIC LIGHT ETC [countable]
a) something that produces light, especially electric light, to help you to see:
Ahead of us we could see the lights of the city.
We’re having a mixture of wall lights and ceiling lights in different parts of the house.
turn/switch/put on a light
I switched on the light in the bedroom.
turn/switch/put off a light
Don’t forget to switch the lights off when you go out.
turn/switch/put out a light
Can you turn the light out downstairs?
a light is/comes/goes on
The lights in the office were still on.
The street lights were just beginning to come on.
He left a light on in the kitchen.
a light is off/out
Make sure all the lights are off when you leave.
Suddenly all the lights in the house went out.
Can you turn the light down (=make it less bright) a bit? ⇨ the bright lights at ↑bright(13)
b) something such as a lamp that you can carry to give you light:
Shine a light over here, will you?
3. TRAFFIC CONTROL [countable usually plural] one of a set of red, green, and yellow lights used for controlling traffic SYN traffic lights:
We waited for the lights to change.
Eventually the lights turned green.
The driver had failed to stop at a red light. ⇨ ↑green light, ↑red-light district
4. ON A VEHICLE [countable usually plural] one of the lights on a car, bicycle etc that help you to see at night:
He was dazzled by the lights of oncoming traffic.
You’ve left your lights on. ⇨ ↑brake light, ↑headlight, ↑parking light
5. first light literary the time when light first appears in the morning sky:
We set out at first light the next day.
6. be/stand in sb’s light to prevent someone from getting all the light they need to see or do something:
Could you move to the left a little – you’re standing in my light.
7. FOR A CIGARETTE a light a match or something else to light a cigarette:
Have you got a light, please?
8. IN SB’S EYES [singular] literary an expression in someone’s eyes that shows an emotion or intention SYN gleam:
There was a murderous light in his eyes.
9. set light to something to make something start burning:
The candle fell over and set light to the barn.
10. come to light/be brought to light if new information comes to light, it becomes known:
This evidence did not come to light until after the trial.
The mistake was only brought to light some years later.
11. throw/shed/cast light on something to provide new information that makes a difficult subject or problem easier to understand:
Melanie was able to shed some light on the situation.
These discoveries may throw new light on the origins of the universe.
12. in the light of something British English, in light of something American English if you do or decide something in the light of something else, you do it after considering that thing:
In light of this tragic event, we have canceled the 4th of July celebrations.
13. in a new/different/bad etc light if someone or something is seen or shown in a particular light, people can see that particular part of their character:
I suddenly saw my father in a new light.
This incident will put the company in a very bad light.
14. see the light
a) to suddenly understand something:
At last doctors have seen the light!
b) to begin to believe in a religion very strongly
15. see the light (of day)
a) if an object sees the light of day, it is taken from the place where it has been hidden, and becomes publicly known:
Some of these documents will probably never see the light of day.
b) if a law, decision etc sees the light of day, it comes into existence for the first time
16. light at the end of the tunnel something that gives you hope for the future after a long and difficult period:
It’s been a hard few months, but we’re finally beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
17. have your name in lights informal to be successful and famous in theatre or films
18. go/be out like a light informal to go to sleep very quickly because you are very tired:
I went straight to bed and went out like a light.
19. a leading light in/of something informal someone who is important in a particular organization:
She’s one of the leading lights of the local dramatic society.
20. the light of sb’s life the person that someone loves more than anyone else:
Her son was the light of her life.
21. WINDOW [countable] a window in a roof or wall that allows light into a room
hide your light under a bushel at ↑bushel, ⇨ be all sweetness and light at ↑sweetness(3), ⇨ in the cold light of day at ↑cold1(9)
• • •
COLLOCATIONS
■ ADJECTIVES/NOUN + light
bright/strong The light was so bright he had to shut his eyes.
blinding/dazzling (=extremely bright) The white buildings reflected a blinding light.
dim (=not bright) Gradually her eyes became accustomed to the dim light.
good (=bright enough) Stand over here where the light is good.
poor/bad (=not bright enough) The light was too poor for me to read.
soft/warm (=light that seems slightly yellow or orange) the soft light of the candles
cold/harsh (=light that seems slightly blue) the cold light of the moon
the morning/dawn light The flowers glowed brightly in the morning light.
natural light (=light produced by the sun) The only natural light came from two high windows.
artificial light (=light produced by lamps) The office was windowless, lit only by artificial light.
■ verbs
light shines The light from the streetlamp shone through the curtains.
light comes from somewhere The only light came from the fire.
light streams/floods in (=a large amount of light comes in) Light streamed in through the window.
light falls on/across etc something The light fell on her book.
light illuminates something formal (=makes it bright or able to be seen) The light from the screen illuminated the people gathered round it.
the light is fading (=it is getting darker as the sun is going down)
produce light (also emit light technical) the light produced by the sun
cast light (=send light onto something) the gold circle of light cast by the lamp
reflect light Snow reflects a lot of light.
something is bathed in light literary (=something has a lot of light shining on it) The fields and woods were bathed in golden light.
■ phrases
a beam/ray/shaft of light (=a thin line of light) There was a shaft of light from the doorway.
a flash of light (=a bright light that appears suddenly for a very short time) A flash of light caught his attention.
a pool/circle of light (=an area of light) They stood in the pool of light cast by the streetlamp.
• • •
THESAURUS (for Meaning 2)
light something that produces light, especially electric light, to help you to see: She switched the kitchen light on. | The lights in the house were all off.
lamp an object that produces light by using electricity, oil, or gas - often used in names of lights: a bedside lamp | a street lamp | a desk lamp | a table lamp | an old oil lamp | a paraffin lamp
lantern a lamp that you can carry, consisting of a metal container with glass sides that surrounds a flame or light: The miners used lanterns which were lit by candles.
torch British English, flashlight American English a small electric lamp that you carry in your hand: We shone our torches around the cavern.
candle a stick of wax with a string through the middle, which you burn to give light: The restaurant was lit by candles.
bulb the glass part of an electric light, that the light shines from: a 100 watt bulb | an energy-saving light bulb
■ on a car
headlight (also headlamp) one of the two large lights at the front of a vehicle: It was getting dark so she switched the headlights on.
sidelight British English, parking light American English one of the two small lights next to the main lights, at the front and back of a car
tail light one of the two red lights at the back of a vehicle
indicator British English, turn signal American English one of the lights on a car that flash to show which way the car is turning

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

light

light [light lights lit lighted lighting] noun, adjective, verb, adverb   [laɪt]    [laɪt]

noun
FROM SUN/LAMPS
1. uncountable the energy from the sun, a lamp, etc. that makes it possible to see things
bright/dim light
a room with good natural light
in the fading light of a summer's evening
The light was beginning to fail (= it was beginning to get dark).
She could just see by the light of the candle.
Bring it into the light so I can see it.
a beam/ray of light
The knife gleamed as it caught the light (= as the light shone on it).

see also  first light

2. countable a particular type of light with its own colour and qualities
• A cold grey light crept under the curtains.

see also  Northern Lights  

LAMP

3. countable a thing that produces light, especially an electric light
to turn/switch the lights on/off
to turn out the light(s)
Suddenly all the lights went out.
It was an hour before the lights came on again.
to turn down/dim the lights
A light was still burning in the bedroom.
ceiling/wall lights
Keep going— the lights (= traffic lights) are green.
• Check your car before you drive to make sure that your lights are working.

see also  brake light, green light, headlight, leading light, red light  

FOR CIGARETTE

4. singular a match or device with which you can light a cigarette: (BrE) Have you got a light?

(NAmE, BrE) Do you have a light?  

EXPRESSION IN EYES

5. singular an expression in sb's eyes which shows what they are thinking or feeling

• There was a soft light in her eyes as she looked at him.  

IN PICTURE

6. uncountable light colours in a picture, which contrast with darker ones

• the artist's use of light and shade  

WINDOW

7. countable (architecture) a window or an opening to allow light in
leaded lights
see also  skylight 
more at the bright lights at  bright  adj., in the cold light of day at  cold  adj., hide your light under a bushel at  hide  v., jump the lights at  jump  v., be (all) sweetness and light at  sweetness  
Word Origin:
n. and v. adj. senses 1 to 2 Old English lēoht līht līhtan Germanic Dutch licht German Licht Indo-European Greek leukos ‘white’ Latin lux ‘light’
adj. senses 3 to 17 Old English lēocht līht lēohte Germanic Dutch licht German leicht Indo-European lung
 
Thesaurus:
light noun
1. U, sing.
She could just see by the light of the candle.
brightnesslighting
Opp: darkness, Opp: the dark, Opp: shade
light/brightness from sth
in the light/brightness
good/bright/strong/poor/electric light/lighting
give light/brightness to sth
2. C
Turn on the lights!
lampcandlelantern|BrE torch|especially AmE flashlight
switch on/off a light/lamp/torch/flashlight
shine a light/lantern/torch/flashlight on sth
a light/lamp/lantern/torch/flashlight shines  
Which Word?:
light / lighting
The noun light has several different meanings and is used in many phrases. Lighting can only be used to talk about the type of light in a place or how lights are used to achieve a particular effect: the lighting system the movie’s interesting lighting effects The lighting at the disco was fantastic.  
Example Bank:
A warning light goes on when the battery is running low.
Bring it into the light and we'll have a look at it.
Could you give me a light?
For the first time since the start of his treatment, we can now see light at the end of the tunnel.
He flashed his lights to warn the oncoming cars.
In full light, you could see Alison was well over forty.
Light from a tall lamp fell in a pool on the desk.
Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light.
She held up the letter against the light.
Some cars already had their lights on.
Some of his paintings never even saw the light of day.
Someone shone a light in my face.
The blue light was flashing.
The car was stopped at the side of the road with its hazard lights flashing.
The lamp was the only source of light in the room.
The light flickered a couple of times then went out.
The light reflecting off the snow was dazzling.
The pilot could just make out the runway landing lights.
The place looked calm in the golden evening light.
The warning light came on.
There was a flash of light followed by an explosion.
They managed to see where the door was by the light of the moon.
We could hardly see the ball in the failing light.
We were momentarily blinded by the light of the sun.
You could see the imperfections in the repair when the light caught it.
film that is sensitive to ultraviolet light
in the cold light of morning
light emitted by a star
the bright lights of the city
the light from the kitchen window
Check your car before you drive to make sure that your lights are working.
Examine the artist's use of light and shade.
He squinted in the bright light.
It was getting dark and the street lights had come on.
Keep going— the lights are green.
Suddenly all the lights went out.
The light was beginning to fail.
The lights dimmed and the curtain rose.
Turn on the lights!
We could only just make out the path in the dim light.
a beam/ray of light
Idioms: according to somebody's lights  bring something to light  cast light on something  come to light  in a good/bad/favourable light  in somebody's light  in the light of something  light at the end of the tunnel  light dawned  light of somebody's life  light on something  light touch  lights are on but nobody's home  make light of something  make light work of something  out like a light  run a light  run the lights  see the light  set light to something
Derived Word: lightness

Derived: light on something  light something up  light up 

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

light / laɪt / noun (BRIGHTNESS)

B1 [ U ] the brightness that comes from the sun, fire, etc. and from electrical devices, and that allows things to be seen:

a bright light

fluorescent/ultraviolet light

a beam/ray of light

Light was streaming in through the open door.

It's a north-facing room so it doesn't get much light (= brightness from the sun) .

A2 [ C ] a piece of equipment that produces light, such as a lamp or a bulb:

Could you switch/turn the light on/off , please?

She could see the city lights in the distance.

As the lights went down, the audience grew quiet.

My front bike light isn't working.

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

light

I [la͟ɪt]BRIGHTNESS OR ILLUMINATION
 ♦♦

 lights, lighting, lit, lighted, lighter, lightest
 (The form lit is the usual past tense and past participle, but the form lighted is also used.)
 1) N-UNCOUNT: also the N Light is the brightness that lets you see things. Light comes from sources such as the sun, moon, lamps, and fire.
  Cracks of light filtered through the shutters...
  Light and water in embassy buildings were cut off...
  It was difficult to see in the dim light.
  ...ultraviolet light.
  Ant:
  darkness
 2) N-COUNT A light is something such as an electric lamp which produces light.
  The janitor comes round to turn the lights out...
  You get into the music, the lights and the people around you.
  ...street lights.
 3) N-PLURAL You can use lights to refer to a set of traffic lights.
  ...the heavy city traffic with its endless delays at lights and crossings.
 4) VERB If a place or object is lit by something, it has light shining on it.
  [V n] It was dark and a giant moon lit the road so brightly you could see the landscape clearly...
  [V n] The room was lit by only the one light...
  [V n with n] The low sun lit the fortress walls with yellow light.
  [V-ed] ...the little lighted space at the bottom of the stairwell.
  Syn:
  illuminate
 5) ADJ-GRADED If it is light, the sun is providing light at the beginning or end of the day.
  It was still light when we arrived at Lalong Creek...
  He would often rise as soon as it was light and go into the garden.
  ...light summer evenings.
  Ant:
  dark
 6) ADJ-GRADED If a room or building is light, it has a lot of natural light in it, for example because it has large windows.
  It is a light room with tall windows...
  Her house is light and airy, crisp and clean.
  Syn:
  bright
  Ant:
  dark
  Derived words:
  lightness N-UNCOUNT usu with supp The dark green spare bedroom is in total contrast to the lightness of the large main bedroom.
 7) V-ERG If you light something such as a cigarette or fire, or if it lights, it starts burning.
  [V n] Stephen hunched down to light a cigarette...
  If the charcoal does fail to light, use a special liquid spray and light it with a long taper.
  [V-ed] ...a lighted candle.
 8) N-SING: a N If someone asks you for a light, they want a match or cigarette lighter so they can start smoking. [INFORMAL]
  Have you got a light anybody?
 9) N-COUNT: with supp If something is presented in a particular light, it is presented so that you think about it in a particular way or so that it appears to be of a particular nature.
  He has worked hard in recent months to portray New York in a better light.
 10) N-SING: the N of n You can refer to the type of influence that something has on situations, people, or things as the light of that situation, person, or thing. [WRITTEN]
  ...the harsh light of reality.
 11) N-PLURAL: prep poss N You say that something is done or is acceptable according to someone's lights when you mean that it is done or is acceptable according to their own ideas and standards. [FORMAL]
  They can get on with running the school system according to their own lights and in their own interests.
 12) N-SING: usu N in n If there is a light in someone's eyes, there is an expression in their eyes that shows you the mood they are in or what they are thinking about. [LITERARY]
  I remembered the curious expectant light in his eyes.
  Syn:
  glint
 13) → See also lighter, lighting, bright lights, night light, pilot light, red light
 14) PHRASE: V inflects If something comes to light or is brought to light, it becomes obvious or is made known to a lot of people.
  Nothing about this sum has come to light...
  The truth is unlikely to be brought to light by the promised enquiry.
 15) PHRASE: V inflects If light dawns on you, you begin to understand something after a period of not being able to understand it.
  At last the light dawned. He was going to marry Phylis!
 16) PHRASE First light is the time in the early morning when light first appears and before the sun rises. [LITERARY]
  Three hours before first light Fuentes gave orders for the evacuation of the camp.
  Syn:
  daybreak
 17) PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR If someone in authority gives you a green light, they give you permission to do something.
  The food industry was given a green light to extend the use of these chemicals...
  Other countries are eagerly awaiting an American green light to lift the sanctions altogether.
 18) PHR-PREP If something is possible in the light of particular information, it is only possible because you have this information.
  In the light of this information it is now possible to identify a number of key issues.
 19) PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v If someone goes out like a light, they fall asleep or become unconscious very quickly or immediately. [INFORMAL]
  `Why didn't somebody come and tell me?' - `Because you were out like a light.'
 20) PHRASE: V inflects If you say that an object sees the light of day or sees the light, you mean that it is taken out of the place where it is stored.
  Museum basements are stacked full of objects which never see the light of day.
 21) PHRASE: V inflects If something sees the light of day at a particular time, it comes into existence or is made known to the public at that time.
  This extraordinary document first saw the light of day in 1966.
 22) PHRASE: V inflects If someone sees the light, they finally realize something or change their attitude or way of behaving to a better one.
  I saw the light, ditched him and now live with a man who loves me and my body.
 23) PHRASE: V inflects: PHR n If you set light to something, you make it start burning. [mainly BRIT]
  They had poured fuel through the door of the flat and had then set light to it.(in AM, use set fire to)
 24) PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n To shed light on, throw light on, or cast light on something means to make it easier to understand, because more information is known about it.
  A new approach offers an answer, and may shed light on an even bigger question.
  Syn:
  clarify
 25) PHRASE When you talk about the light at the end of the tunnel, you are referring to the end of the difficult or unpleasant situation that you are in at the moment.
  All I can do is tell her to hold on, that there's light at the end of the tunnel.
 26) all sweetness and lightsee sweetness
  Phrasal Verbs:
  - light on
  - light upon
  - light up
  - light uponII [la͟ɪt]NOT GREAT IN WEIGHT, AMOUNT, OR INTENSITY
 ♦♦♦

 lighter, lightest
 1) ADJ-GRADED Something that is light does not weigh very much, or weighs less than you would expect it to.
  Modern tennis rackets are now apparently 20 per cent lighter.
  ...weight training with light weights...
  Try to wear light, loose clothes.
  Ant:
  heavy
  Derived words:
  lightness N-UNCOUNT usu with supp The toughness, lightness, strength, and elasticity of whalebone gave it a wide variety of uses.
 2) ADJ-GRADED Something that is light is not very great in amount, degree, or intensity.
  It's a Sunday like any other with the usual light traffic in the city...
  Trading was very light ahead of yesterday's auction.
  ...a light breeze.
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED usu ADV -ed, also ADV after v Put the onions in the pan and cook until lightly browned. ...the small and lightly armed UN contingent.
 3) ADJ: ADJ n Light equipment and machines are small and easily moved, especially because they are not heavy.
  ...a convoy of light armoured vehicles...
  They used light machine guns and AK forty-sevens.
 4) ADJ-GRADED Soil that is light is easy to dig, because it has a loose texture and is not sticky or solid.
  Less chemical gets into the sub-soil which is particularly important with the light, tropical soils.
 5) ADJ-GRADED Something that is light is very pale in colour.
  The walls are light in colour and covered in paper...
  He is light haired with gray eyes.
  Syn:
  pale
 COMB in COLOUR
 Light is also a combining form. We know he has a light green van. ...a light blue box.
 6) ADJ-GRADED: ADJ n A light sleep is one that is easily disturbed and in which you are often aware of the things around you. If you are a light sleeper, you are easily woken when you are asleep.
  She had drifted into a light sleep...
  She was usually a light sleeper.
  Ant:
  heavy
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV after v He was dozing lightly in his chair.
 7) ADJ-GRADED A light sound, for example someone's voice, is pleasantly quiet.
  The voice was sweet and light.
 8) ADJ-GRADED A light meal is small in quantity.
  ...a light, healthy lunch.
  ...wine and cheese or other light refreshment.
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV after v She found it impossible to eat lightly.
 9) ADJ-GRADED Food that is light has a delicate flavour and is easy to digest.
  Berti's clear tomato soup is deliciously light...
  Bake salmon in foil or poach in a light stock for 8-10 minutes.
  ...light table wines.
 10) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n Light work does not involve much physical effort.
  He was on the training field for some light work yesterday.
 11) ADJ-GRADED If you describe the result of an action or a punishment as light, you mean that it is less serious or severe than you expected.
  She confessed her astonishment at her light sentence when her father visited her at the jail.
  Syn:
  lenient
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV after v One of the accused got off lightly in exchange for pleading guilty to withholding information from Congress.
 12) ADJ-GRADED Movements and actions that are light are graceful or gentle and are done with very little force or effort.
  Use a light touch when applying cream or make-up...
  There was a light knock at the door.
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV with v He kissed her lightly on the mouth... Knead the dough very lightly.
  lightness N-UNCOUNT She danced with a grace and lightness that were breathtaking.
 13) → See also lighterIII [la͟ɪt]UNIMPORTANT OR NOT SERIOUS
 ♦♦♦

 lighter, lightest
 (Please look at category 5 to see if the expression you are looking for is shown under another headword.)
 1) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n If you describe things such as books, music, and films as light, you mean that they entertain you without making you think very deeply.
  He doesn't like me reading light novels.
  ...light classical music.
  ...a light entertainment programme.
  Ant:
  deep
 2) ADJ-GRADED: usu ADJ n If you say something in a light way, you sound as if you think that something is not important or serious.
  Talk to him in a friendly, light way about the relationship.
  ...to finish on a lighter note.
  Ant:
  serious
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV after v `Once a detective, always a detective,' he said lightly.
  lightness N-UNCOUNT `I'm not an authority on them,' Jessica said with forced lightness.
 3) ADJ-GRADED: usu with brd-neg If you say that something is not a light matter, you mean that it should be treated or considered as being important and serious.
  It can be no light matter for the Home Office that so many young prisoners should have wanted to kill or injure themselves.
  Derived words:
  lightly ADV-GRADED ADV with v His allegations cannot be lightly dismissed.
 4) PHRASE: V inflects If you make light of something, you treat it as though it is not serious or important, when in fact it is.
  Roberts attempted to make light of his discomfort.
  Syn:
  play down
 5) → See also lighter
 to make light work ofsee work

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

1light /ˈlaɪt/ noun, pl lights
1 [noncount] : the form of energy that makes it possible to see things : the brightness produced by the sun, by fire, a lamp, etc.
• The light was bright/dazzling.
• The landscape was bathed/awash in light.
• a ray/shaft/beam of light
• a source of light = a light source
• a photograph taken in low/dim light
• the light of the moon
• a mixture of light and shadow
• The windows let fresh air and light into the room.
• a plant that grows best in direct/indirect light [=with light shining directly/indirectly on it]
natural light [=sunlight]
artificial light [=light produced by electric lamps]
- sometimes used figuratively
• He hates the harsh light of publicity.
2 [count]
a : a source of light (such as an electric lamp)
• turn/switch on/off the light
• a fluorescent light
• a light fixture [=a lamp that is permanently attached to a wall, ceiling, etc.]
• a warning light
• The lights suddenly went out.
• The lights suddenly came on.
• the twinkling lights of the city below
• the bright lights of Broadway
• a light switch [=a switch for turning lights on and off]
• The lights are on, so there must be somebody at home.
- see also nightlight
b : a light on a vehicle
• His car's battery died because he left his lights on.
3 [singular] : a way of showing or understanding something or someone
• The situation looks less serious when looked at in a certain light. [=in a certain way]
• I see things in a different light now. [=I see/understand things differently now]
• The defendants were shown/depicted in a bad light [=in a way that made them seem bad] by the lawyer.
• The news about his marital problems does not place/put him in a good light. [=does not make him appear to be a good person]
• She tried to explain her behavior in the best light possible. [=in a way that would make her appear as good as possible]
4 [count] : a light or set of lights used to control traffic : traffic light
• Turn left at the next light.
• The light was red.
• We were waiting for the light to turn green.
5 [singular] informal : a flame for lighting a cigarette
• I need a light for my cigarette.
• Do you have a light?
• I didn't have any matches, but a stranger gave me a light. [=lit my cigarette for me]
6 [noncount] formal : daylight 1
• Things look different by the light of day.
• We woke up at first light. [=at dawn; at sunrise; when the sun came up]
- see also see the light of day (below)
7 [singular] : a quality in a person's eyes that shows emotion
• I saw the light of recognition in her eye.
8 lights [plural]
a : light colors : colors that are more white than black
• the composition of lights and darks in the painting/photograph
b : light-colored clothes
• Wash the lights and the darks separately.
according to your lights formal : according to your idea of what is right
• You know my views on the matter; but of course you must act according to your (own) lights. [=you must be guided by your own opinions about what is right]
a light at the end of the tunnel : a reason to believe that a bad situation will end soon or that a long and difficult job will be finished soon
• They are falling deeper into debt, and there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
• The work on our house has been going on for months, but we're finally starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
bring (something) to light : to tell people about (something) : to make (something) known
• Many new facts were brought to light during the investigation.
cast/shed/throw light on : to help to explain (something) : to make it possible to understand or know more about (something)
• She is developing new theories that might shed some light on these unusual phenomena.
• I hope my explanation throws light on their behavior.
come to light : to become known
• Other details have come to light because of this investigation.
• She was angry when it came to light that some people were being promoted unfairly.
hide your light under a bushel
- see bushel
in someone's light : blocking the light that someone needs to see or read something
• She asked him to move back a few steps because he was in her light.
in the cold light of day
- see 1cold
in the light of or US in light of
1 : while thinking about (something that affects the way you see or understand things)
• You should think about their advice in light of your own needs.
• It is impossible to come to a conclusion in the light of the data we have here.
• You should read the story in light of your own experiences.
2 : because of (something)
• It's a particularly important topic in light of recent events.
light dawns
✦When people suddenly understand something that they had not understood before, (a/the) light dawns (on them).
• When she saw the guilty look on her husband's face, a light dawned, and she knew he had been lying to her.
more heat than light
- see 1heat
out like a light informal
1 : asleep
• As soon as my head hit the pillow, I was out like a light.
2 : unconscious
• He took one punch to the jaw and was out like a light.
punch someone's lights out
- see 1punch
see the light informal : to suddenly understand or realize the truth of something
• Many people doubted his theory, but most of them have now finally seen the light. [=most of them now realize that his theory is correct]
see the light of day
1 : to be seen or used
• our fine china, which hasn't seen the light of day in at least 10 years
2 : to become publicly known
• Important documents in this case have never seen the light of day.
• Her theory first saw the light of day in a well-respected magazine.
set light to chiefly Brit : to cause (something) to begin burning
• used a match to set light to [=set fire to] the paper
the light of your life : a person you love very much and who makes you happy
• His daughter is the light of his life.
trip the light fantastic
- see 2trip

- see also green light, leading light, northern lights, southern lights sweetness and light at sweetness

light

light [adjective] (NOT HEAVY)

Not heavy

US /laɪt/ 
UK /laɪt/ 
Example: 

The little girl was as light as a feather. 

آهنگ وترانه: 
Hotel California - Eagles

Oxford Essential Dictionary

adjective (lighter, lightest)

1 full of natural light:
In summer it's light until about ten o'clock.
The room has a lot of windows so it's very light.
 opposite dark

2 with a pale colour:
a light blue shirt
 opposite dark

3 easy to lift or move:
Will you carry this bag for me? It's very light.
 opposite heavy

4 not very much or not very strong:
light rain
I had a light breakfast.

>> lightly adverb:
She touched me lightly on the arm.

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English

II. light2 S1 W1 BrE AmE adjective (comparative lighter, superlative lightest)
[Word Family: noun: ↑light, ↑lighter, ↑lighting, ↑lightness; adjective: ↑light, ↑lighted, ↑unlit; verb: ↑light, ↑lighten; adverb: ↑lightly, ↑light]
[Language: Old English; Origin: leoht]
1. COLOUR a light colour is pale and not dark:
You look nice in light colours.
light blue/green/grey etc
She had blue eyes and light brown hair.
I wanted a lighter yellow paint for the walls.
2. DAYLIGHT it is/gets light if it is light, there is the natural light of day OPP dark:
We’ll keep on looking while it’s still light.
It was seven o'clock and just starting to get light.
3. ROOMS a room that is light has plenty of light in it, especially from the sun OPP dark:
The kitchen was light and spacious.
The office was a big light room at the back of the house.
4.
NOT HEAVY not very heavy:
You can carry this bag – it’s fairly light.
You should wear light, comfortable shoes.
The truck was quite light and easy to drive.
She was as light as a feather (=very light) to carry. ⇨ ↑lighten, ↑lightweight2
5. NOT GREAT if something is light, there is not very much of it or it is not very great OPP heavy:
Traffic is lighter before 8 a.m.
A light rain began to fall.
She was wearing only light make-up.
people who have suffered only light exposure to radiation
6. CLOTHES light clothes are thin and not very warm:
She took a light sweater in case the evening was cool.
a light summer coat
7. WIND a light wind is blowing without much force OPP strong:
Leaves were blowing about in the light wind.
There was a light easterly breeze.
8. SOUND a light sound is very quiet OPP loud:
There was a light tap at the door.
Her voice was light and pleasant.
9. TOUCH a light touch is gentle and soft:
She gave him a light kiss on the cheek.
He felt a light tap on his shoulder.
10. WORK/EXERCISE light work is not hard or tiring:
I found him some light work to do.
She only has a few light duties around the house.
The doctor has advised me to take regular light exercise.
11. FOOD
a) food or drink that is light either does not have a strong taste or does not make you feel full very quickly, for example because it does not contain very much fat, sugar, or alcohol OPP rich:
We had a light white wine with the fish.
a light, refreshing dessert
a new light cheese spread with virtually no fat
b) a light meal is a small meal OPP big:
I had a light lunch in town.
a delicious light snack
c) food that is light contains a lot of air:
a type of light, sweet bread
Beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy.
12. PUNISHMENT a light punishment is not very severe OPP harsh:
a fairly light sentence
13. a light smoker/drinker/eater etc someone who does not smoke etc very much
14. light sleep/doze a sleep from which you wake up easily:
I fell into a light sleep.
15. a light sleeper someone who wakes up easily if there is any noise etc:
She’s quite a light sleeper.
16. NOT SERIOUS not serious in meaning, style, or manner, and only intended to entertain people:
His speech gradually became lighter in tone.
an evening of light music
It’s a really good book if you want a bit of light reading.
The show looks at some of the lighter moments from the world of politics.
17. light relief something that is pleasant and amusing after something sad or serious:
I’m glad you’ve arrived – we could all do with a little light relief!
18. make light of something to joke about something or treat it as not being very serious, especially when it is important:
She tried to make light of the situation, but I could tell that she was worried.
19. on a lighter note/in a lighter vein used when you are going to say something less sad or serious:
On a lighter note, the concert raised over £300 for school funds.
20. make light work of something to do something or deal with something quickly and easily:
A freezer and microwave oven can make light work of cooking.
21. be light on your feet to be able to move quickly and gracefully:
She’s very agile and light on her feet.
22. a light heart literary someone who has a light heart feels happy and not worried:
I set off for work with a light heart. ⇨ ↑light-hearted
23. SOIL light soil is easy to break into small pieces OPP heavy:
Carrots grow well in light soils.
—lightness noun [uncountable]:
a lightness of touch

Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

adjective (light·er, light·est

WITH NATURAL LIGHT
1. full of light; having the natural light of day
We'll leave in the morning as soon as it's light.
It gets light at about 5 o'clock.
• It was a light spacious apartment at the top of the building.

Opp:  dark  

COLOURS

2. pale in colour
light blue eyes
Lighter shades suit you best.
• People with pale complexions should avoid wearing light colours.

Opp:  dark  

WEIGHT

3. easy to lift or move; not weighing very much
Modern video cameras are light and easy to carry.
Carry this bag— it's the lightest.
He's lost a lot of weight— he's three kilos lighter than he was.
The little girl was as light as a feather.
• The aluminium body is 12% lighter than if built with steel.

Opp:  heavy

4. usually before noun of less than average or usual weight
light summer clothes
• Only light vehicles are allowed over the old bridge.

Opp:  heavy

5. used with a unit of weight to say that sth weighs less than it should do

• The delivery of potatoes was several kilos light.  

GENTLE

6. usually before noun gentle or delicate; not using much force
She felt a light tap on her shoulder.
the sound of quick light footsteps
You only need to apply light pressure.
As a boxer, he was always light on his feet (= quick and elegant in the way he moved).

Opp:  heavy  

WORK/EXERCISE

7. usually before noun easy to do; not making you tired
After his accident he was moved to lighter work.
• some light housework

• You are probably well enough to take a little light exercise.  

NOT GREAT

8. not great in amount, degree, etc
light traffic
The forecast is for light showers.
light winds
• Trading on the stock exchange was light today.

Opp:  heavy  

NOT SEVERE/SERIOUS

9. not severe

• He was convicted of assaulting a police officer but he got off with a light sentence.

10. entertaining rather than serious and not needing much mental effort
light reading for the beach
• a concert of light classical music

• We were just making light conversation.

11. not serious
She kept her tone light.
This programme looks at the lighter side of politics.
We all needed a little light relief at the end of a long day (= something amusing or entertaining that comes after sth serious or boring).
The job does have its lighter moments.
• Let's talk about lighter things, shall we?

On a lighter note, we end the news today with a story about a duck called Quackers.  

CHEERFUL

12. usually before noun free from worry; cheerful

• I left the island with a light heart.  

FOOD

13. (of a meal) small in quantity
a light supper/snack.
• I just want something light for lunch.

Opp:  heavy

14. not containing much fat or not having a strong flavour and therefore easy for the stomach to digest
• Stick to a light diet.

see also  lite

15. containing a lot of air

• This pastry is so light.  

DRINK

16. low in alcohol

• a light beer

17. (IndE) (of tea or coffee) containing a lot of water
Syn:  weak
I don't like my coffee too light.
• I think I'll have a light tea.

Opp:  strong  

SLEEP

18. only before noun a person in a light sleep is easy to wake
She drifted into a light sleep.
I've always been a light sleeper.
Opp:  deep
see also  lightly 
more at many hands make light work at  hand  n.  
Word Origin:
n. and v. adj. senses 1 to 2 Old English lēoht līht līhtan Germanic Dutch licht German Licht Indo-European Greek leukos ‘white’ Latin lux ‘light’
adj. senses 3 to 17 Old English lēocht līht lēohte Germanic Dutch licht German leicht Indo-European lung
 
Thesaurus:
light adj.
1.
Light colours suit you best.
palesoftpastelneutral|usually approving cool
Opp: dark
a light/pale/soft/pastel/neutral/cool colour/shade
light/pale/soft/pastel/cool blue/green
light/pale/soft/pastel pink
light/soft/pale yellow/brown/red
Light or pale? Both words can be used to describe colours. Pale is also used to describe a kind of light that contains a lot of white and is not bright:
a pale light/glow/sky
 ¤ a light light/glow/sky
2.
The forecast is for light showers.
gentlemild
Opp: heavy
(a) light/gentle breeze/wind/rain
light/gentle work/exercise
light/mild punishment
Light, gentle or mild? Light is used especially to describe weather, work, exercise and punishments. Gentle is used especially to describe weather, temperature, work and exercise. Mild is used especially to describe weather, diseases, drugs, criticism and punishment.  
Example Bank:
As soon as it grew light, we got up and dressed.
It stays light for so long on these summer evenings.
It was almost light outside.
It was barely light yet.
It was not light enough to see things clearly.
It was starting to get light.
The bottle felt strangely light between my fingers.
The punishment can be remarkably light.
The sky turned light once more.
The tent is light enough for backpacking and touring.
The traffic is usually fairly light in the afternoons.
The whole house was beautifully light and airy.
Trading volume remains light.
We'll set out as soon as it's completely light.
a deliciously light alternative to cake
wearing only very light clothes
Do you need some light reading for the beach?
He was convicted of assaulting a police officer but he got off with a light sentence.
He's got light blue eyes.
It gets light at about 5 o'clock.
People with pale complexions should avoid wearing light colours.
We'll leave in the morning as soon as it's light.
a pale light/glow/sky
light reading/fiction/entertainment/comedy/music/opera
• pale/light blue/green/yellow/orange/red/pink/purple/grey/brown

• pale/light colours/shades/tones

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary - 4th Edition
 

light / laɪt / adjective (NOT HEAVY)

A2 not heavy:

Here, take this bag - it's quite light.

He's a few pounds lighter than he used to be.

How do you get your cakes so wonderfully light, Felicity?

He has a very light (= gentle) touch , which is what is required in massage.

She's very light on her feet (= she moves gracefully) .

A2 describes clothes that are made of thin material that allows you to be cool:

a light summer dress
 

light / laɪt / adjective (BRIGHT)

B1 lit by the natural light of the day:

The big windows make the room feel wonderfully light and airy.

It gets light very early these summer mornings.

Summer is coming and the evenings are getting lighter (= getting dark later) .
 

light / laɪt / adjective (PALE)

A1 (of colours) pale:

light blue/green

→  Opposite dark

light / laɪt / adjective (NOT SERIOUS)

entertaining and easily understood, but not serious and not intended to make you think:

I want some light reading for the summer holidays - a romance or something.

A lively argument between the two main speakers provided a bit of light relief (= something enjoyable or amusing) in an otherwise dull conference.

make light of sth C2 to behave as if a situation, especially a problem, is not serious or important:

It is easy to make light of other people's problems.
 

light / laɪt / adjective (NOT MUCH)

B1 not great in strength or amount:

A light wind was blowing.

The traffic was quite light so we got through London quickly.

It's only light rain - you don't need an umbrella.

light eater/drinker/smoker

someone who eats/drinks/smokes only a little

light sleeper

someone who is easily woken up by noise, etc.
 

light / laɪt / adjective (MEAL/DRINK)

A light meal is small and easy to digest:

I don't eat much for lunch - just a light snack.

describes alcoholic drinks that are not strong in flavour:

It's described on the label as 'light, fruity wine'.

 

light / laɪt / adjective (NOT SEVERE)

needing only a very small amount of effort:

light exercise, such as walking

a bit of light housework

A light sentence in prison is a short one:

He got off with a fairly light sentence because it was his first conviction.

make light work of sth/doing sth to do something quickly and easily:

Heather made light work of painting the walls.

You made light work of that chocolate cake (= you ate it quickly) !

© Cambridge University Press 2013

Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner’s English Dictionary

light
I. BRIGHTNESS OR ILLUMINATION

/laɪt/

(lights, lighting, lit, lighted, lighter, lightest)
Frequency: The word is one of the 1500 most common words in English.
Note: The form 'lit' is the usual past tense and past participle, but the form 'lighted' is also used.
Please look at category 19 to see if the expression you are looking for is shown under another headword.
1.
Light is the brightness that lets you see things. Light comes from sources such as the sun, moon, lamps, and fire.
Cracks of light filtered through the shutters...
It was difficult to see in the dim light.
...ultraviolet light.
darkness
N-UNCOUNT: also the N
2.
A light is something such as an electric lamp which produces light.
The janitor comes round to turn the lights out...
...street lights.
N-COUNT
3.
You can use lights to refer to a set of traffic lights.
...the heavy city traffic with its endless delays at lights and crossings.
N-PLURAL
4.
If a place or object is lit by something, it has light shining on it.
It was dark and a giant moon lit the road so brightly you could see the landscape clearly...
The room was lit by only the one light...
The low sun lit the fortress walls with yellow light.
VERB: V n, V n, V n with n
5.
If it is light, the sun is providing light at the beginning or end of the day.
It was still light when we arrived at Lalong Creek...
...light summer evenings.
dark
ADJ
6.
If a room or building is light, it has a lot of natural light in it, for example because it has large windows.
It is a light room with tall windows...
= bright
dark
ADJ
light‧ness
The dark green spare bedroom is in total contrast to the lightness of the large main bedroom.
N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp
7.
If you light something such as a cigarette or fire, or if it lights, it starts burning.
Stephen hunched down to light a cigarette...
If the charcoal does fail to light, use a special liquid spray and light it with a long taper.
...a lighted candle.
VERB: V n, V, V-ed
8.
If someone asks you for a light, they want a match or cigarette lighter so they can start smoking. (INFORMAL)
Have you got a light anybody?
N-SING: a N
9.
If something is presented in a particular light, it is presented so that you think about it in a particular way or so that it appears to be of a particular nature.
He has worked hard in recent months to portray New York in a better light.
N-COUNT: with supp
10.
see also lighterlightingbright lightsnight lightpilot lightred light
11.
If something comes to light or is brought to light, it becomes obvious or is made known to a lot of people.
The truth is unlikely to be brought to light by the promised enquiry.
PHRASE: V inflects
12.
If light dawns on you, you begin to understand something after a period of not being able to understand it.
At last the light dawned. He was going to marry Phylis!
PHRASE: V inflects
13.
If someone in authority gives you a green light, they give you permission to do something.
The food industry was given a green light to extend the use of these chemicals...
PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR
14.
If something is possible in the light of particular information, it is only possible because you have this information.
In the light of this information it is now possible to identify a number of key issues.
PREP-PHRASE
15.
If someone sees the light, they finally realize something or change their attitude or way of behaving to a better one.
I saw the light and ditched him.
PHRASE: V inflects
16.
If you set light to something, you make it start burning. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use set fire to)
They had poured fuel through the door of the flat and had then set light to it.
PHRASE: V inflects: PHR n
17.
To shed light on, throw light on, or cast light on something means to make it easier to understand, because more information is known about it.
A new approach offers an answer, and may shed light on an even bigger question.
= clarify
PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n
18.
When you talk about the light at the end of the tunnel, you are referring to the end of the difficult or unpleasant situation that you are in at the moment.
All I can do is tell her to hold on, that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
PHRASE
19.
all sweetness and light: see sweetness

II. NOT GREAT IN WEIGHT, AMOUNT, OR INTENSITY

/laɪt/

(lighter, lightest)
Frequency: The word is one of the 3000 most common words in English.
1.
Something that is light does not weigh very much, or weighs less than you would expect it to.
Modern tennis rackets are now apparently 20 per cent lighter.
...weight training with light weights...
Try to wear light, loose clothes.
heavy
ADJ
light‧ness
The toughness, lightness, strength, and elasticity of whalebone gave it a wide variety of uses.
N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp
2.
Something that is light is not very great in amount, degree, or intensity.
It’s a Sunday like any other with the usual light traffic in the city...
...a light breeze.
ADJ
light‧ly
Put the onions in the pan and cook until lightly browned.
ADV: usu ADV -ed, also ADV after v
3.
Light equipment and machines are small and easily moved, especially because they are not heavy.
...a convoy of light armoured vehicles...
They used light machine guns and AK forty-sevens.
ADJ: ADJ n
4.
Something that is light is very pale in colour.
The walls are light in colour and covered in paper...
He is light haired with gray eyes.
dark
ADJ

Light is also a combining form.
We know he has a light green van.
...a light blue box.
COMB in COLOUR
5.
A light sleep is one that is easily disturbed and in which you are often aware of the things around you. If you are a light sleeper, you are easily woken when you are asleep.
She had drifted into a light sleep...
She was usually a light sleeper.
deep
ADJ: ADJ n
light‧ly
He was dozing lightly in his chair.
ADV: ADV after v
6.
A light sound, for example someone’s voice, is pleasantly quiet.
The voice was sweet and light.
ADJ
7.
A light meal consists of a small amount of food, or of food that is easy to digest.
...a light, healthy lunch.
heavy
ADJ
light‧ly
She found it impossible to eat lightly.
ADV: ADV after v
8.
Light work does not involve much physical effort.
He was on the training field for some light work yesterday.
ADJ: usu ADJ n
9.
If you describe the result of an action or a punishment as light, you mean that it is less serious or severe than you expected.
She confessed her astonishment at her light sentence when her father visited her at the jail.
= lenient
ADJ
light‧ly
One of the accused got off lightly in exchange for pleading guilty to withholding information from Congress.
ADV: ADV after v
10.
Movements and actions that are light are graceful or gentle and are done with very little force or effort.
Use a light touch when applying cream or make-up...
There was a light knock at the door.
= gentle
ADJ
light‧ly
He kissed her lightly on the mouth...
Knead the dough very lightly.
ADV: ADV with v
light‧ness
She danced with a grace and lightness that were breathtaking.
N-UNCOUNT
11.
see also lighter

III. UNIMPORTANT OR NOT SERIOUS

/laɪt/

(lighter, lightest)
Frequency: The word is one of the 3000 most common words in English.
Please look at category 5 to see if the expression you are looking for is shown under another headword.
1.
If you describe things such as books, music, and films as light, you mean that they entertain you without making you think very deeply.
...light classical music.
...a light entertainment programme.
ADJ: usu ADJ n
2.
If you say something in a light way, you sound as if you think that something is not important or serious.
Talk to him in a friendly, light way about the relationship...
Let’s finish on a lighter note.
serious
ADJ: usu ADJ n
light‧ly
‘Once a detective, always a detective,’ he said lightly.
ADV: ADV after v
light‧ness
‘I’m not an authority on them,’ Jessica said with forced lightness.
N-UNCOUNT
3.
If you say that something is not a light matter, you mean that it should be treated or considered as being important and serious.
It can be no light matter for the Home Office that so many young prisoners should have wanted to kill or injure themselves.
ADJ: usu with brd-neg
light‧ly
His allegations cannot be lightly dismissed.
ADV: ADV with v
4.
If you make light of something, you treat it as though it is not serious or important, when in fact it is.
Roberts attempted to make light of his discomfort.
= play down
PHRASE: V inflects

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary

Merriam-Webster's Advanced Learner's Dictionary: 

4light adj lighter; -est
1 a : not heavy : having little weight or less than usual weight
• This suitcase is light enough for a child to carry.
• The truck was carrying a light load.
• “How heavy is it?” “Not very: it's actually quite light.”
• It's very light in weight. = It's of very light weight.
• This box is lighter than I thought it would be.
• She would like to be a few pounds lighter. = She would like to be lighter by a few pounds. [=she would like to weigh less than she does by a few pounds]
• Aluminum is a light metal.
• lifting light weights
• This box is as light as a feather. [=very light]
b : small in size and weight
• He has a light build.
2 a : less in amount or degree than usual
• Only a light turnout is expected for the election.
• Traffic was light this morning.
• I have only a light course load this semester.
• The stock market was slightly up today in light trading.
light rain/snow
• She was wearing light makeup.
light perfume
b : not strong or violent : moderate
• a light breeze
c : not great or large
• The storm caused only light [=slight] damage. [=the storm did not cause much damage]
light competition
• Casualties have so far been light.
d : not difficult to accept or bear
• a light responsibility : not harsh or severe
light punishment
• He was given a surprisingly light sentence for his crimes.
e : slight or minor in degree or effect
• She has a light cold.
light discipline
• These shrubs require only a little light pruning.
- opposite heavy
3 : not involving a lot of physical effort
light lifting
• doing a little light housework
light exercise/exertion
• a light practice session
• It's a big job, but many hands make light work. [=if many people work on it, it will be easier to do]
- opposite heavy
4 : not loud or forceful
light footsteps
• a light tread
• a light touch
• just a light tap on the ball/shoulder
- opposite heavy
5 : not important or serious : intended mainly for entertainment
• doing some light reading
- opposite heavy
6 : not dense and thick
• He has a light beard.
• a light growth of timber
• an animal's light summer coat
light fog/smoke
light soil
- opposite heavy
7 : made with thin cloth and not very warm
• a light coat/blanket
- opposite heavy
8 a : eating, drinking, or using a small amount of something
• He's a light eater/smoker/drinker/user.
light alcohol consumption
b : producing a small amount of something
• a shrub that is a light bloomer [=a shrub that does not produce many flowers]
c : not done often or in large amounts
light smoking
- opposite heavy
9 a : not having a large amount of food : not making your stomach feel full
• We ate a light lunch.
• a light snack
b : made with fewer calories or with less of some ingredient than usual
light beer
c : not rich, dense, or thick
light cream
light syrup
- opposite heavy
10 a : designed to carry a small load or few passengers
• a light truck
• a refueling point for light aircraft
b : not as large and powerful as other weapons, machines, etc.
light artillery
light machinery
c of a group of soldiers : having fewer and smaller weapons and less armor than other groups but able to move quickly
light infantry/cavalry
light on : having or using a small amount of (something)
• a essay that is light on facts but heavy on speculation
• She asked him to go light on the mustard. [=to not use a large amount of mustard]
light on your feet : capable of moving in a quick and graceful way
• He's very light on his feet for such a big person.
light sleeper : someone who wakes up easily
• She's a very light sleeper. The slightest noise will wake her.
make light of : to treat (something, such as a problem) in a joking way : to not be serious about (something important)
• I don't mean to make light of this very serious issue.
• He made light of his recent losses—but you could tell he was worried about them.

- compare 2light

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