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 lights 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

The museum is adorned with the 36 letters of the Armenian alphabet and a glass hazarashen skylight, inspired by traditional roofs in homes across the Armenian Highlands.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

I recently put in a skylight and get lots of light.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 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

One occupant had to escape through the front door, and two others in a converted loft climbed through a skylight on to the roof.

From BBC • Dec. 20, 2024

The sun through the skylight is summer hot and I shed layers—jacket, hat, mittens, sweater.

From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson