LIGHTSTRUCK Meaning and
Definition
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Lightstruck is an adjective used to describe the negative effect caused by exposure to light on certain substances, especially those sensitive to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It refers to the chemical reaction that occurs when light interacts with a substance, typically causing degradation or spoilage of the material.
In particular, lightstruck commonly refers to the negative impact of light exposure on beverages, such as beer. When beer is exposed to UV light, especially from the sun or fluorescent lighting, it can cause a reaction with the hops used in brewing. This reaction produces a sulfur-like chemical compound called skunky mercaptan, which imparts an unpleasant odor and taste to the beer, often described as "skunked."
Lightstruck flavors can be sensed by consumers as a result of this light interaction. Beers that have been lightstruck often have a distinct, unpleasant aroma and taste that is reminiscent of a skunk's spray. To prevent this lightstruck effect, many beer manufacturers use brown or green glass bottles or utilize opaque packaging materials that block UV light, protecting the beverage from light exposure.
Besides beer, lightstruck can also refer to the negative impact of light on other substances, such as wines, juices, and even certain medications or chemical compounds. Lightstruck can cause the deterioration of these products, leading to changes in taste, color, or overall quality.
Common Misspellings for LIGHTSTRUCK
- kightstruck
- pightstruck
- oightstruck
- lughtstruck
- ljghtstruck
- lkghtstruck
- loghtstruck
- l9ghtstruck
- l8ghtstruck
- lifhtstruck
- livhtstruck
- libhtstruck
- lihhtstruck
- liyhtstruck
- lithtstruck
- liggtstruck
- ligbtstruck
- ligntstruck
- ligjtstruck
- ligutstruck
Etymology of LIGHTSTRUCK
The word "lightstruck" is derived from the combination of the words "light" and "struck". Here is the breakdown of their etymologies:
1. Light:
- Origin: Old English "liht" or "leoht"
- Etymology: Derived from the Proto-Germanic word "leuhtaz"
- Meaning: "Light" refers to electromagnetic radiation within a certain portion of the spectrum, which is visible to the human eye.
2. Struck:
- Origin: Old English "strīcan" or "strēocan"
- Etymology: Derived from the Proto-Germanic word "strikaną"
- Meaning: "Struck" is the past tense and the past participle of the verb "strike", which means to hit or come into contact with something forcibly.
