English Reference
noun

lighting

n.
US /ˈɫaɪtɪŋ/ UK /lˈaɪtɪŋ/ light·ing UK spelling lightings

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    the lamps and equipment used to provide light in a room, building, or street.

    the apparatus for providing artificial light; the arrangement or style of light in a particular space.

    Simple

    The warm lighting in the restaurant made the atmosphere feel very cozy.

    In context

    The architect insisted on recessed lighting to maintain the minimalist aesthetic of the gallery while ensuring the sculptures were properly highlighted.

    Usage

    Often used uncountably to describe the general system of lights.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    the way light is used in a photograph, film, or play to create a mood.

    the deliberate use and manipulation of light sources to achieve a specific aesthetic or emotional effect in visual media.

    Simple

    The movie used dark lighting to make the scene feel scary.

    In context

    The director of photography opted for high-contrast lighting to evoke the moody atmosphere of classic film noir.

    Usage

    Commonly used in technical discussions about cinematography or stage design.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of starting a fire or turning on a light.

    the action of igniting a flame or activating an illumination source.

    Simple

    The lighting of the Olympic torch is a famous part of the ceremony.

    In context

    The lighting of the beacons across the hills served as a traditional signal that the celebrations had officially commenced.

    Usage

    Usually functions as a verbal noun.

    ignitionkindling
    extinguishing

Usage lighting design

Teachers and parents are asking for basic improvements: solar panels for lighting, a mobile health clinic, school meals and enough desks for pupils.

Al Jazeera· 15 Aug 2026

The problem, of course, is that this newfound speed arrived in a world whose lighting technology had not quite caught up with the idea of vehicles moving at more than a brisk trot.

Ars Technica· 3 Aug 2026

From light + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated