Lightning vs Lightening

Quick Tip: Remember: Lightning is the electrical discharge (no "e"). Lightening means making lighter (with an "e").

Lightning

noun

the occurrence of a natural electrical discharge of very short duration and high voltage

Examples:
  • Lightning struck the tree.
  • We saw lightning in the distance.
  • The lightning lit up the sky.

Lightening

verb

present participle of "lighten" - to make or become lighter in weight, color, or tone

Examples:
  • The sky was lightening as dawn approached.
  • She is lightening her hair color.
  • The load was lightening as we unloaded.
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