Definition

Able to resist fading when exposed to light, especially sunlight.

Example

The artist chose lightfast paints to ensure her artwork would remain vibrant over time.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new paint that is lightfast?

Yeah, I read that it doesn't fade even in direct sunlight!

That's great, I want my artwork to stay vibrant for years.

Definitely! Using lightfast colors will make a big difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lightfast → It is formed from "light" (from Old English *leoht*, meaning illumination or brightness) and "fast" (from Old English *fæst*, meaning firm or stable). The word "lightfast" refers to the ability of a material, especially a pigment, to resist fading or discoloration when exposed to light.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'stable' ('fast') in the presence of 'light' — that's why lightfast means it doesn't fade when exposed to light.

Visually Confused Words