an electrical discharge accompanied by ionization of surrounding atmosphere

A luminous, sporadic, and often audible, electric discharge. It occurs from objects, especially pointed ones, when the electrical field strength near their surfaces attains a value near 1000 volts per centimeter. It often occurs during stormy weather and might be seen on a ship's mast or yardarm, aircraft, lightning rods, and steeples.

A Corpse Light.

St. Elmo's fire. See under Saint.