light bulb

American  

noun

1. an electric light.

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light bulb British  

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: bulb.  a glass bulb containing a gas, such as argon or nitrogen, at low pressure and enclosing a thin metal filament that emits light when an electric current is passed through it

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Etymology

Origin of light bulb

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

So many cartoons depict great ideas using light bulbs that we’ve forgotten many of the greatest ideas come about from long deliberation and careful winnowing.

From Los Angeles Times

If there had been a light bulb over his head, it would have lit up.

From Literature

“I love watching the light bulb go off, watching them be inspired,” Gill said.

From Los Angeles Times

I think it’s just cool to see how people’s brains work and what makes the light bulb go off at certain moments.

From Los Angeles Times

The 17 rare earths are found in a wide variety of everyday and high-tech devices, from light bulbs to guided missiles.

From Barron's