lightening

== English == === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈlaɪ.tn̩.ɪŋ/ === Etymology 1 === ==== Verb ==== lightening present participle and gerund of lighten ==== Noun ==== lightening (plural lightenings) The act or result of making something light or lighter. (medicine) The sensation caused by the descent of the uterus into the pelvic cavity before the onset of labour (nautical) The removal of cargo (especially crude oil) from a vessel in order to reduce its draft === Etymology 2 === Doublet of lightning. ==== Noun ==== lightening (obsolete or proscribed) Alternative form of lightning. ===== Usage notes ===== Regarded as a misspelling by all modern authorities. === Anagrams === enlighting