What does lighting mean?
Lighting means the light that illuminates a place, the equipment used to produce it, or the process of providing it. It is an important feature of homes, workplaces, streets, stages, and events because it affects visibility, safety, mood, and the presentation of objects. In architecture and interior design, lighting can refer to a complete system, including fixtures and the arrangement of light sources. In theatre, film, and events, it may also refer to the deliberate use of changing or coloured light to establish atmosphere and direct attention. The related verb form means to illuminate or ignite something, as in 'the lighting of the lamps.' Although 'lighting' is often treated as an uncountable noun, separate lighting installations or effects may be called 'lightings,' though this usage is relatively uncommon.
The illumination produced by lamps, candles, or other sources; the equipment used to provide illumination; or the act of providing or arranging such light.
"The stage lighting changed dramatically as the music slowed."
Usually uncountable in general use, especially when referring to illumination as a whole.
The present participle of 'light,' meaning to illuminate or cause something to begin burning.
"The film opens with the lighting of a fireplace."
This is a grammatical form of the verb 'light' rather than a separate lexical verb.
The plural is uncommon. It may refer to separate lighting installations or distinct lighting effects, but 'lighting' is normally uncountable.
"The display featured several colourful lightings across the garden."
Without lighting, a space has form but no atmosphere: light reveals objects, while carefully designed lighting can change how they are seen and felt.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How lighting is actually used
As a noun, 'lighting' is commonly uncountable when referring to illumination or illumination design: 'improved lighting.' The plural 'lightings' is uncommon and is usually used for separate installations or lighting effects. The form can also function as the present participle of 'light.'
Easily confused with lighting
Lighting is illumination produced by light sources, whereas lightning is a sudden electrical discharge during a thunderstorm.