northern lights

plural noun

: aurora borealis

Examples of northern lights in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That night, the northern lights gleamed cold and hard, and the moon bathed the whole landscape in bleak, eerie light. — Dolores Brown, Outdoor Life, 17 June 2026 The higher the number, the farther south the northern lights can appear. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026 Chances to see the northern lights are even higher in Alaska and significantly increase the farther inland observers are in the state. — Antonio Pequeño Iv, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Voyageurs is also one of the best places in the Lower 48 to see the northern lights, which can appear year-round but are especially active in winter and around equinoxes. — Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for northern lights

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of northern lights was in the 14th century

Rhymes for northern lights

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Browse Nearby Words

northernize
northern lights
northernly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Northern lights.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/northern%20lights. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

northern lights

plural noun
: aurora borealis
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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