lighter

¹ American  

[lahy-ter] / ˈlaɪ tər /

noun

1. a person or thing that lights or ignites.

2. a mechanical device used in lighting cigarettes, cigars, or pipes for smoking.

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lighter ² American  

[lahy-ter] / ˈlaɪ tər /

noun

1. a large, open, flat-bottomed barge, used in unloading and loading ships offshore or in transporting goods for short distances in shallow waters.

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verb (used with object)

1. to convey in or as if in a lighter.

lighter ¹ British  

/ ˈlaɪtə /

noun

1. a small portable device for providing a naked flame or red-hot filament to light cigarettes, etc

2. a person or thing that ignites something

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lighter ² British  

/ ˈlaɪtə /

noun

1. a flat-bottomed barge used for transporting cargo, esp in loading or unloading a ship

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Etymology

Origin of lighter¹

First recorded in 1545–55; light ¹ + -er ¹

Origin of lighter²

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at light ³, -er ¹

Example Sentences

The principle behind this is that otherwise lighter drivers would have an advantage over heavier ones, as lower weight is lap time.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

The White House on Sunday acknowledged Trump’s visit would be heavier on symbolism and lighter on policy outcomes, though both countries expect to announce agreements on Chinese purchases of U.S. agricultural and aerospace products.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

A smaller, simpler engine could also allow chassis to be slightly narrower and lighter, insiders say.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

Such charges are often treated as misdemeanors rather than felonies, meaning lighter sentences if convicted.

From Barron's • May 11, 2026

The flame on the lighter was smaller than that of the candle, and the spirits stayed closer, giving him less of a berth.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

Related Words

• barge
• boat
• life raft
• lifeboat