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Dictionary Language resources

ancient lights

Pronunciation: /eɪnʃəntˈlʌɪts/

Definition of ancient lights

noun

[treated as singular] English Law

the right of access to light of a property, established by custom and used to prevent the construction of buildings on adjacent property which would obstruct such access.

Origin:

mid 18th century: from lights meaning 'light from the sky'. In England the sign ‘Ancient Lights’ was often placed on a house, adjacent to a site where a high building might be erected