flash
UK: flæʃ | US: flæʃ
n. a sudden burst of bright light
n. a very short period of time
vt. to emit a sudden burst of light
vt. to display briefly (e.g., an image)
vi. to move or pass rapidly
flash = fl<to move swiftly> + ash<light, brightness>
- fl (from Old English flēogan, meaning "to fly" or "move swiftly")
- ash (from Old English æsc, meaning "light" or "brightness," though the connection here is debated; some link it to Middle English flaschen, meaning "to splash or sparkle")
Etymology Origin:
The word "flash" likely originated from the blending of Old English roots suggesting swift motion (fl) and brightness (ash). Over time, it evolved to describe sudden bursts of light or quick movements, reflecting its dual roots in speed and illumination. The modern sense of "brief display" (e.g., flashing a smile) extends this logic.
A flash of lightning lit up the night sky.
The news spread in a flash.
She flashed her ID at the security guard.
The camera flashed as he took the photo.
Memories of childhood flashed through his mind.