Definition

1. Noun:
   • An electric lamp consisting of a transparent or translucent glass housing containing a wire filament (usually tungsten) that emits light when heated by electricity: This is the standard device for producing light from electricity in homes and buildings. The glass bulb is typically pear-shaped and contains an inert gas to prevent the filament from oxidizing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Thomas Edison is famously credited with the invention of the practical electric-light bulb.
  • Please remember to turn off the electric-light bulb when you leave the room to save energy.
  • The electric-light bulb in the hallway has burned out and needs to be replaced.

Advanced Usage

• "The light bulb moment": A common metaphorical phrase derived from the image of a light bulb turning on, representing a sudden realization or brilliant idea.
  • She had a real light bulb moment while working on the problem.

Variants and Related Words

• Light bulb (n): The more common, shortened term for an electric-light bulb.
• Incandescent bulb (n): A more technical term specifying the type of bulb that produces light by heating a filament.
• Bulb (n): In context, can be used as a short form (e.g., "a 60-watt bulb").

Synonyms

• Incandescent lamp: A formal synonym emphasizing the method of light production.
• Globe: In some regional contexts, this can refer to a light bulb, especially a round one.

Related Phrases

• To screw in a light bulb: The common action for installing a bulb.
  • Can you help me screw in this new light bulb?
• To change a light bulb: The common action for replacing a burnt-out bulb.
  • I need to change the light bulb in the kitchen.

Related Idioms

• A dim bulb: An idiom describing someone who is not very intelligent.
  • He's a nice guy, but let's be honest, he's a bit of a dim bulb.
• Bright as a (new) light bulb: An idiom describing someone who is very intelligent or has a sudden clear idea.
  • After studying all night, she felt as bright as a new light bulb during the exam.

Noun

1. electric lamp consisting of a transparent or translucent glass housing containing a wire filament (usually tungsten) that emits light when heated by electricity