light pollution

noun

: artificial skylight (as from city lights) that interferes especially with astronomical observations

Examples of light pollution 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.

The northern lights are best seen between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time while at a high vantage point away from light pollution, according to NOAA. —

Ty Roush, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2025 Here are some general viewing tips from the space agency: Find an area well away from street lights and the light pollution of cities. —

Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 29 Dec. 2024 Be prepared to exercise some patience this year, as only the brightest meteors will be able to compete with the light pollution from the moon. —

Stefanie Waldek, Travel + Leisure, 13 Dec. 2024 The best advice for viewing any meteor shower is to get as far away from light pollution as possible. —

Stefanie Waldek, Travel + Leisure, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for light pollution

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of light pollution was in 1969

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Light pollution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/light%20pollution. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.

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