chain lightning
A jagged bolt of chain lightning splits the sky during a nighttime thunderstorm.
Noun: A specific, visible form of lightning characterized by its rapid, zigzagging movement across the sky, where the electrical discharge appears to have a forked or divided end.
This term is used in meteorology and general description to specify a particular visual pattern of a lightning strike, distinguishing it from other types like sheet or heat lightning. - The storm was terrifying, with frequent bolts of chain lightning illuminating the entire valley. - Photographers often try to capture the dramatic, branching path of chain lightning.
The term is primarily technical/descriptive. It can be used metaphorically in literature to describe anything that moves with a sudden, brilliant, and zigzagging motion. - Her thoughts flashed through her mind like chain lightning, one brilliant idea connecting to the next.
- Lightning (n): The general term for the visible flash of light caused by a discharge of atmospheric electricity.
- Forked lightning (n): A closely related term often used synonymously with "chain lightning," emphasizing the divided, branching appearance.
- Zigzag lightning (n): Another descriptive synonym highlighting the characteristic path.
- Forked lightning
- Zigzag lightning
- Sheet lightning: A form of lightning where the flash is diffused by clouds, appearing as a general illumination without a visible, distinct path.
- Heat lightning: A silent, distant lightning flash, often seen on the horizon on warm evenings, with no visible connection to a specific storm or cloud.
A jagged bolt of chain lightning splits the sky during a nighttime thunderstorm.
- a form of lightning that moves rapidly in a zigzag path with one end divided (fork-like)