northern lights

plural noun

: aurora borealis

Examples of northern lights in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The northern lights may brighten the skies tonight, August 20, into tomorrow morning, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 20 Aug. 2026

But be prepared for long mountain views, longer mountain hikes, camping under the northern lights and singing along with howling wolves. — Ron Spomer, Outdoor Life, 19 Aug. 2026

However, even minor storms can cause the northern lights to appear visible further south. — Zachary Folk, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

As a resident of the upper Midwest, the northern lights are a really big deal; people travel miles and miles just to see them. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for northern lights

• acolytes
• ammonites
• amorites
• analytes
• andesites
• appetites
• argillites
• astrocytes
• belemnites
• bryophytes
• canaanites
• carmelites

Kids Definition

northern lights

plural noun

: aurora borealis