What is the definition of Ignis-fatuus? | Dictionary.net

IGNIS-FATUUS

\ɪɡnˈizfˈatʌəs], \ɪɡnˈizfˈatʌəs], \ɪ_ɡ_n_ˈi_z_f_ˈa_t_ʌ_ə_s]\

Definitions of IGNIS-FATUUS

1908 - Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary of the English Language
1871 - The Cabinet Dictionary of the English Language

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ig'nis-fat'[=u]-us, n. a light which misleads travellers, often seen over marshy places, also called 'Will-o'-the-Wisp:'--pl. IGNES-FATUI (ig'n[=e]z-fat'[=u]-[=i]). [L. ignis, fire, fatuus, foolish.]

1908 - Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary of the English Language
By Thomas Davidson

n. [Latin] A light that appears in the night over marshy grounds, supposed to be occasioned by the decomposition of animal or vegetable substances, producing phosphoric or other inflammable gas;â€”Will of the wisp; Jack o' lantern.

1871 - The Cabinet Dictionary of the English Language

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