light-bulb moment
A moment of enlightenment, inspiration or sudden realization.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I had a light-bulb moment while I was washing the dishes.”
“After staring at the math problem for an hour, she had a light-bulb moment and finally understood the solution.”
“The scientist experienced a sudden light-bulb moment that allowed her to connect the disparate data points and solve the mystery of the experiment.”
From light bulb + moment.
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aha moment
The moment or instant at which the solution to a problem, or some other significant realization, becomes clear.
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at any given moment
At any point in time.
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eureka moment
The moment of a sudden unexpected discovery.
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Hallmark moment
A memorable moment or event, one which would either make for or call for a poignant greeting card.
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have a moment
To reach a high level of popularity during a specific time.
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have its moments
To experience brief periods of distinction, especially in contrast with the status quo.
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have one's moments
To experience brief periods of distinction, especially in contrast with the status quo.
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Hollywood moment
A moment of great drama or sentimentality, suggesting the climax of a film.
Last updated August 10, 2026