lamppost

USAGE SUMMARY

"lamppost" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when referring to a light post that is usually placed on streets and sidewalks for lighting purposes. For example, "The lampposts on the sidewalk illuminated the path for pedestrians."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a lamppost and noose waiting for every jihadi that comes back to Britain and their scum enablers and sympathizers.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the provincial capital, Baquba, two corpses have been hung from a lamppost, one upside-down.

The Guardian

"Although people don't want to see them sat on every lamppost".

The Guardian

Mr Djokovic's family hails from here and so every lamppost on Zvecan's main street is festooned with pictures of him.Serbs here, as in the rest of Serbian-dominated northern Kosovo, are voting in the second day of a referendum that asks them: "Do you accept the institutions of the so-called 'Republic of Kosovo'?".

The Economist

Alas, such high-minded talk is undermined by the election posters hung from every second Berlin lamppost by his own Social Democrats.

The Economist

A wilted bouquet wrapped in cellophane, it was taped to a lamppost, across the road from the small brick church where the 41-year-old Labour MP had once worshipped and played.

The Economist

Every lamppost and pylon in the quiet agricultural state is now festooned with the two parties' banners.

The Economist

The smart posters stuck to every other lamppost turn out to be fresh calls for people to avoid dropping litter, in the name of serving their country.Things were so calm that Mr Cameron went for a quick stroll in the square just now.

The Economist

The PRI candidate's face is plastered across every lamppost and taxi window in some towns in the state.

The Economist

The image of him swinging from a lamppost in the rain, delighted at falling in love, is one of the great images in film history.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nerval's years of destitution and anguish ended in 1855 when he was found hanging from a lamppost in the rue de la Vieille Lanterne, Paris.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing creatively, consider the symbolic significance of a "lamppost". It can represent guidance, safety, or even a point of connection in a dark or uncertain environment.

Common error

Avoid using "lamppost" to refer to any pole-like structure. Ensure it specifically refers to a pole that holds a light for illumination. For example, don't call a telephone pole a "lamppost".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "lamppost" is as a noun. It typically acts as the subject or object in a sentence, referring to a specific type of lighting fixture. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples, showcasing its role in describing urban scenes and settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

10%

Independent

10%

Less common in

The New Yorker

9%

The Economist

8%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "lamppost" is a common noun used to describe a street light pole. Ludwig AI confirms that its use is grammatically correct. The term is frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias, and independent sources, indicating its widespread recognition. While alternatives like "street light" and "light pole" exist, "lamppost" provides a specific image in writing. Remember to use "lamppost" specifically for poles holding lights, avoiding confusion with other types of poles. Overall, it’s a reliable and effective term for describing urban and suburban lighting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lamp post

An alternative spelling of "lamppost", with a space between the words.

Street light

Replaces "lamppost" with a more generic term for a light on a street.

Street lamp

A common synonym for "lamppost", simply shortening "street light".

Light pole

Similar to "lamppost" but emphasizes the pole structure rather than the light itself.

Roadside lamp

Specifies that the lamp is located on the side of a road.

Lighting standard

A more formal term for a lamppost, often used in technical contexts.

Electric light pole

Emphasizes the electrical nature of the light on the pole.

Public lighting fixture

A very formal term for a lamppost, often used in official documentation.

Utility pole with light

Describes a utility pole that also serves as a light source.

Gas lamp

Refers to an older type of lamppost that uses gas for illumination.

FAQs

How can I use "lamppost" in a sentence?

A "lamppost" is typically used to illuminate streets and walkways. For instance, "The cat sat perched on the "lamppost", watching the street below."

What are some synonyms for "lamppost"?

Alternatives include "street light", "light pole", or "street lamp", depending on the specific context.

Is "lamp post" or "lamppost" the correct spelling?

"Lamppost" is commonly written as one word, but "lamp post" is also an acceptable alternative spelling.

What is the historical significance of lampposts?

Historically, "gas lamps" were the original form of lampposts, playing a crucial role in urban development by enhancing safety and extending the hours of activity in cities.