Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ignis-fatuus
noun
/ˈɪɡ.nɪs ˈfæ.tʃ.uːs/
Definition
A phosphorescent light that appears at night, often in swampy areas, and is caused by the combustion of gases emitted by decaying organic matter.
Examples
- As he wandered through the marsh, he saw an ignis-fatuus flickering in the distance, but he knew better than to follow it.
- The legend of the ignis-fatuus has been used to caution travelers about the dangers of being misled by illusions in the dark.
Meaning
Literally meaning ‘foolish fire’ in Latin, it refers to a phenomenon that misleads or confuses people, often leading them in the wrong direction.
Synonyms
- Will-o’-the-wisp
- Ghost light
- Marsh gas
