die Leuchte
light
A device that produces light; a lamp including its socket, light source, and shade.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben eine neue Leuchte über dem Esstisch montiert.
We installed a new light above the dining table.
die Leuchte
light / luminary
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
die Leuchte
luminary
A person who is exceptionally intelligent, capable, or well-known in a particular field; an authority.
EXAMPLE
Er gilt als eine echte Leuchte auf dem Gebiet der Astrophysik.
He is considered a true luminary in the field of astrophysics.
Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'die Leuchte' (the light/luminary) is derived directly from the verb 'leuchten' (to shine, to emit light). So a Leuchte is literally 'something that shines'.
EXAMPLE
Die Sterne leuchten heute Nacht besonders hell.
The stars are shining especially brightly tonight.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning by the fact that a person is being discussed. It is usually mentioned in connection with a field of expertise, often with the phrase 'eine Leuchte auf dem Gebiet ... sein/gelten' (to be/be considered a luminary in the field of ...).
EXAMPLE
Professor Schmidt ist eine anerkannte Leuchte in der Genforschung.
Professor Schmidt is a recognized luminary in genetic research.
Typical collocations
In connection with the physical object, verbs such as 'eine Leuchte anbringen' (to install a light), 'eine Leuchte montieren' (to mount/install a light), or 'eine Leuchte einschalten/ausschalten' (to switch a light on/off) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte die Leuchte im Flur ausschalten?
Could you please switch off the light in the hallway?
Register
Calling a person a 'Leuchte' (luminary) is rather elevated or educated language. It is often used approvingly, or sometimes slightly ironically.
EXAMPLE
Er hält sich für eine große Leuchte, aber seine Ideen sind nicht neu.
He thinks he's a great luminary, but his ideas aren't new.
Compare with
Leuchte vs Lampe
lamp
Both words refer to a device that produces artificial light. „Lampe“ is the usual everyday term, especially for a single household lighting device; „Leuchte“ sounds more precise and technical and can also refer to permanently installed systems. In ordinary conversation, Lampe is usually the better choice; in technical specifications, Leuchte is more common.
Leuchte
Für den Flur wählt der Elektriker eine passende Leuchte aus.
The electrician is choosing a suitable light fixture for the hallway.
Lampe
Für den Schreibtisch kaufe ich eine neue Lampe.
I’m buying a new lamp for my desk.
In real life
Loading video examples...