Alight – Definition & Meaning

Alight is a word that is commonly used in the English language. It is often used in different contexts to describe various situations. The word alight has different meanings, and it is essential to understand its definition and usage in different contexts.

Definitions

The word alight is a verb, and it has several meanings. It can mean to descend from a vehicle or to get off from a bus or a train. It can also mean to come down from a height or to land on a surface. Additionally, alight can also mean to catch fire or to ignite.

Origin

The word alight has its roots in Old English. It comes from the word “a-” which means “down” and “lihtan” which means “to dismount” or “to descend.” The word has evolved over time and has taken on different meanings.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of alight can vary slightly in different dictionaries. However, the general definition remains the same. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, alight means “to descend from a vehicle, especially a horse or a carriage.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to come down from something (such as a vehicle or a horse).” Collins Dictionary defines it as “to come to rest after moving through the air.”

Associations

The word alight is often associated with transportation. It is commonly used to describe the act of getting off a bus, train, or other vehicles. It is also associated with fire, as it can mean to catch fire or to ignite.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms of alight, including disembark, dismount, descend, land, touch down, ignite, and catch fire.

Antonyms

The antonyms of alight include ascend, mount, board, embark, take off, and extinguish.

The same root words

The word alight has several root words, including “a-” which means “down,” and “lihtan” which means “to dismount” or “to descend.” Other words that have the same root words include “light,” “delight,” and “enlighten.”

Example Sentences

1. The passengers alighted from the bus.
2. The bird alighted on the branch.
3. The plane alighted on the runway.
4. The candle alighted the curtains.
5. The fireworks alighted the sky.

In conclusion, the word alight is a versatile word that is used in different contexts. Understanding its definition and usage can help in effective communication in different settings.