alight
|a-light|
/əˈlaɪt/
descend or burning
Etymology
'alight' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'ālīhtan,' where 'ā-' meant 'off' and 'līhtan' meant 'to descend.'
'ālīhtan' transformed into the Middle English word 'alighten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'alight.'
Initially, it meant 'to descend or dismount,' but over time it evolved to include the meaning of 'being on fire.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to descend from a train, bus, or other form of transport.
She alighted from the bus at the last stop.
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Verb 2
to settle or land, as after a flight.
The bird alighted on the branch.
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Adjective 1
on fire; burning.
The house was alight with flames.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35