skylight

American  

[skahy-lahyt] / ˈskaɪˌlaɪt /

noun

1. an opening in a roof or ceiling, fitted with glass, for admitting daylight.

2. the frame set with glass fitted to such an opening.

3. Meteorology. the diffuse light from the sky, scattered by air molecules, as distinguished from the direct radiation from the sun.

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skylight British  

/ ˈskaɪˌlaɪt /

noun

1. Also called: fanlight.  a window placed in a roof or ceiling to admit daylight

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Etymology

Origin of skylight

First recorded in 1670–80; sky + light ¹

Example Sentences

We delivered Moynihan Train Hall across the street—a grand space with a breathtaking skylight and first-class amenities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

The dining room is an entertainer’s dream thanks to its skylight, piano, and large seating table.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

The skylight was usually secured by an alarm but that had been deactivated while the roof was being mended.

From Barron's • Oct. 20, 2025

And Gessl worries about water seeping through his skylight, which was removed during the firefight.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 24, 2025

Standing over the skylight, I see that three glass pieces have caught the sun.

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan