Pronunciation: [mˈuːnlɪt] (IPA) 
The word "moonlit" is spelled with two syllables: "moon" and "lit". The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /u/ as in "boot" and the consonant sound /m/. The second syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in "bit" and the consonant sound /t/. Together, the word is pronounced as /ˈmuːn.lɪt/. It describes the scene where the moon's light illuminates objects, giving them a silver or white appearance.
Moonlit is an adjective that describes something illuminated or lit up by the light of the moon. This term denotes the serene and ethereal quality of an environment or scene that is bathed in the soft glow of the moon. It portrays a tranquil ambiance often associated with romantic or poetic settings.
The word "moonlit" encapsulates the enchanting and mystical atmosphere created by moonlight. It suggests a subtle radiance, casting a gentle and understated illumination on objects, landscapes, or even individuals. The term commonly conjures up images of shimmering silver beams streaming through the darkness, lending an otherworldly appearance to the surroundings.
Moonlit scenery often evokes a sense of tranquility, providing a peaceful and dreamlike backdrop for various activities. Whether it is a moonlit stroll on a beach, a moonlit lake reflecting the shimmering celestial body, or a moonlit forest with soft shadows stretching across the landscape, the term "moonlit" beautifully encapsulates the serene and magical qualities of such moments.
The luminescence provided by moonlight is typically softer and more diffused than that of artificial lighting, lending a mysterious and mellow aura to the environment. Moonlit nights often hold a special allure, evoking a sense of wonder and captivating the imagination.
In summary, "moonlit" describes the captivating beauty and tranquility of an environment, landscape, or scene illuminated by the gentle glow of the moon. It conveys a dreamlike and ethereal quality, often associated with romantic or poetic settings.
Illumined by the moon.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "moonlit" derives from the combination of two English words: "moon" and "lit".
The term "moon" comes from the Old English word "mona", which has Germanic origins. This word is closely related to the Old High German word "māno" and the Old Norse word "máni", all of which refer to the natural satellite that orbits the Earth.
The word "lit" is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "light", which comes from the Old English word "līhtan". This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*leuhtaną" and the Proto-Indo-European word "*lewks-", both meaning "to shine" or "to brighten".
The combination of "moon" and "lit" in "moonlit" thus refers to something being illuminated by the moonlight.
