light pollution

American  

noun

1. unwanted or harmful light, as from bright street lights or neon signs.

2. Astronomy. artificial illumination of the sky that sets a limit on the faintness of stars that can be observed or photographed.

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light pollution British  

noun

1. the glow from street and domestic lighting that obscures the night sky and hinders the observation of faint stars

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Etymology

Origin of light pollution

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

light pollution

The light pollution created by constellations of very bright satellites is not just a problem for astronomers.

From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026

In contrast, some industrialized nations saw declines in light emissions, often linked to the adoption of LED technology and policies aimed at reducing light pollution.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 9, 2026

A buildout of the claims could end public access to the area and permanently scar the landscape, drawing traffic and light pollution and harming springs and groundwater stores, he said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 30, 2026

Scotland has internationally recognised dark sky sites, which are largely protected from light pollution and recommended for stargazing.

From BBC ● Feb. 14, 2026

G’ma said they can’t see them from Atlanta because there’s too much light pollution.

From "Clean Getaway" by Nic Stone