"lightning" | Definition and Related Words

Noun

Abrupt electric discharge from cloud to cloud or from cloud to earth accompanied by the emission of light (synset 111495679)
is a type of: atmospheric electricity - electrical discharges in the atmosphere
subtypes:
- chain lightning, forked lightning - a form of lightning that moves rapidly in a zigzag path with one end divided (fork-like)
- bolt, bolt of lightning, thunderbolt - a discharge of lightning accompanied by thunder
The flash of light that accompanies an electric discharge in the atmosphere (or something resembling such a flash);
Can scintillate for a second or more (synset 107427593)
is a type of: flash - a sudden intense burst of radiant energy
subtypes:
- heat lightning - bright flashes of light near the horizon without thunder (especially on hot evenings); usually attributed to distant lightning that is reflected by clouds
- sheet lighting - lightning that appears as a broad sheet; due to reflections of more distant lightning and to diffusion by the clouds