# ray

/ˈɹeɪ/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ray
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a narrow line of light or heat that comes from the sun or another bright object. It can also describe a small amount of a good feeling, like hope.

For teachers: a narrow beam of light or other radiant energy, such as heat or X-rays, emanating from a central source. In a figurative sense, it denotes a slight but perceptible amount of a positive quality.

## Examples

- A single ray of sunlight shines through the window.
- The clouds parted for a moment, allowing a bright ray of light to illuminate the valley below.
- Despite the grim economic forecast, the recent increase in consumer spending provided a small ray of hope for local business owners struggling to stay afloat.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the phrase 'a ray of' followed by an abstract noun like 'hope', 'sunshine', or 'comfort'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.