flashlight

[flash-lahyt]

noun

1. especially British, torch. a small, portable electric lamp powered by dry batteries, LEDs, or a tiny generator.

2. a light that flashes, such as a lighthouse beacon.

3. any source of artificial light as used in flash photography.

flashlight

/ ˈflæʃˌlaɪt /

noun

1. Also called (in Britain and certain other countries): torch. a small portable electric lamp powered by one or more dry batteries

2. Sometimes shortened to: flash. photog the brief bright light emitted by an electronic flash unit

3. a light that flashes, used for signalling, in a lighthouse, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of flashlight¹

First recorded in 1885–90; flash + light ¹

Example Sentences

"I'll put it near my emergency items at home, like the flashlight, just so I know it's there."

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His colleagues rushed in with a flashlight to help him find his way down.

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A well-stocked shelter must have first aid supplies, a radio, flashlights, extra batteries, and cases of canned food.

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If you are walking or cycling at night or in low light conditions, wear reflective clothing or use a flashlight or headlamp to increase your visibility to other road users.

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It's nearly 10:00 pm on Friday night, and a group of children shine their flashlights on the imposing skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex.

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Related Words

• fame 
• light 
• limelight 
• notoriety 
• public eye 
• publicity