LIKE LIGHTNING Meaning and
Definition
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"Like lightning" is a colloquial expression often used metaphorically to describe something that happens very quickly or abruptly, akin to the speed and suddenness with which lightning strikes. It conveys the idea of an action or event occurring in a rapid, almost instantaneous manner. The phrase "like lightning" emphasizes not only the swiftness but also the intensity and surprise associated with an action.
The phrase originates from the phenomenon of lightning, a powerful electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms, characterized by brilliant flashes of light and rapid movement. Lightning bolts are known for their incredible speed, with lightning traveling at approximately 220,000 km/h (137,000 mph), making it appear to occur almost instantaneously. This element of speed and the suddenness of its appearance have given rise to the metaphorical use of the phrase "like lightning."
In figurative usage, "like lightning" is often employed to describe someone's swift physical movements, such as running, or the instantaneousness of certain actions, reactions, or events. It can also describe fast thought processes, quick decision-making, or the speedy passage of time. The phrase suggests a sense of spontaneity, energy, and a lack of predictability. Overall, "like lightning" embodies the idea of unparalleled speed and unexpectedness, making it a powerful and vivid descriptor when used in appropriate contexts.
Common Misspellings for LIKE LIGHTNING
- kike lightning
- pike lightning
- oike lightning
- luke lightning
- ljke lightning
- lkke lightning
- loke lightning
- l9ke lightning
- l8ke lightning
- lije lightning
- lime lightning
- lile lightning
- lioe lightning
- liie lightning
- likw lightning
- liks lightning
- likd lightning
- likr lightning
- lik4 lightning
- lik3 lightning
Etymology of LIKE LIGHTNING
The etymology of the phrase "like lightning" involves the origins of both the word "like" and the word "lightning".
The word "like" can be traced back to the Old English word "gelīc", which means "similar" or "alike". This word comes from the Proto-Germanic root "*galīkaz". In Old English, "like" was also spelled as "lico" or "licu". Over time, it evolved into the Modern English word "like" with its current meaning of indicating similarity.
The word "lightning" has its roots in the Old English word "lihting", which means a flash of lightning. This word is derived from the Old Norse word "lītningr" and is related to the Middle High German word "lihtninge".se words, in turn, come from the Proto-Germanic root "*lehtingaz".
Idioms with the word LIKE LIGHTNING
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go like lightning
The idiom "go like lightning" means to move or happen very quickly, often used to describe someone or something that is exceptionally fast or speedy.
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like lightning (or like greased lightning)
The idiom "like lightning" or "like greased lightning" is used to describe something or someone that moves extremely fast or with great speed and agility. It implies that the speed at which the action is performed is comparable to a lightning bolt, which is known for its incredible swiftness and rapidity.
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like lightning
"Like lightning" is an idiom that means extremely fast or quickly. It is often used to describe something that happens with great speed or acceleration.
