English Reference
adjective · noun

lit

adj. · n.
US /ˈɫɪt/ UK /lˈɪt/ lit UK spelling lits

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate SlangInformal

    adj.used to describe a party or event that is very exciting, fun, or high-energy.

    adj.denoting a social event or atmosphere characterized by high energy, excitement, or excellence.

    Simple

    The concert last night was totally lit; the crowd never stopped dancing.

    In context

    Social media was flooded with clips from the festival, with fans claiming the headline set was the most lit performance of the year.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    adj.feeling the effects of drinking alcohol or using drugs.

    adj.intoxicated by alcohol or drugs; often used in social contexts to describe a state of being high or drunk.

    Simple

    He got a bit too lit at the wedding and started singing loudly.

    In context

    The security guards were instructed to turn away anyone who appeared visibly lit before they reached the club entrance.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a short way of saying 'literature', often used when talking about school subjects.

    n.a clipping of 'literature', frequently used in academic or casual contexts to refer to the study of written works.

    Simple

    I have a lot of reading to do for my English lit class this week.

    In context

    She decided to major in comparative lit after discovering a passion for nineteenth-century Russian novels during her first year.

    Usage

    Often used in compound phrases like 'English lit' or 'lit class'.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated