Definition

1. Noun:
   • A lamp for providing momentary light to take a photograph: A "flash bulb" is a small, sealed glass bulb containing material that, when electrically ignited, produces a very brief and intense burst of light. It is used in photography to illuminate a scene.

Usage

• The primary use of a flash bulb is to provide a single, powerful flash of light to properly expose a photograph, especially in low-light conditions.
• It is typically used once and then must be replaced, distinguishing it from reusable electronic flash units.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The photographer inserted a new flash bulb into the vintage camera.
  • The sudden bright light from the flash bulb startled the subject.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: Flash bulbs were widely used in mid-20th-century photography before the common adoption of electronic flashes. They are now considered largely obsolete but are still used in some specialized or artistic photography.
• "Flash bulb memory": This is a related psychological term describing a vivid, detailed memory of a surprising and consequential event, metaphorically linking the clarity of the memory to the bright, illuminating flash of the bulb. (Note: This is a compound term listed here due to its conceptual connection, but the core definition remains the photographic device).

Variants and Related Words

• Flashbulb (noun): A common alternative spelling, written as one word.
• Flash (noun/verb): The general term for a burst of light. A "flash" can refer to the light itself or to a modern electronic flash unit.
• Photoflash bulb (noun): A more descriptive synonym.
• Flashgun (noun): A device that holds and triggers a flash bulb or electronic flash.

Synonyms

• Photoflash lamp
• Flash lamp

Related Phrases

• To pop a flash bulb: An informal phrase meaning to fire or use a flash bulb.
  • The paparazzi popped flash bulbs as the celebrity exited the car.

Noun

1. a lamp for providing momentary light to take a photograph