1
as in slightness
the state or quality of having little weight
the first thing I noticed about the little bird was its lightness; I could hardly tell I was holding it in my hand
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2
as in cheerfulness
a lack of seriousness often at an improper time
the inappropriate lightness of the anchorman's tone while he was reading the story of the freak accident in which people had died
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as in brightness
the quality or state of having or giving off light
the photographer was concerned that the lightness of the background would cast the main subject into shadow
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of lightness
Akiko Katayama, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
The design gives off an easy, relaxed style thanks to the wide-leg fit, and they’re made from cotton and linen to create the perfect blend of lightness and breathability.
—Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 12 June 2025
Many artists working during this period incorporated language as a strategy to do away with physical stuff—to replace the heaviness of objects with the lightness of words.
—Marina Isgro, Artforum, 1 June 2025
So the shows have darkness, but there’s plenty of lightness, too.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightness
Noun
After Appeals Court Pauses Ruling While the bolster gives support and balance to the knife, the lightness of the bolster-free Japanese knives offers ergonomic benefits.
—Akiko Katayama, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
The design gives off an easy, relaxed style thanks to the wide-leg fit, and they’re made from cotton and linen to create the perfect blend of lightness and breathability.
—Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 12 June 2025
Many artists working during this period incorporated language as a strategy to do away with physical stuff—to replace the heaviness of objects with the lightness of words.
—Marina Isgro, Artforum, 1 June 2025
So the shows have darkness, but there’s plenty of lightness, too.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 1 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for lightness
Cite this Entry
“Lightness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lightness. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.
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