|
|
 |
 |
S - Glossary of lighting terms |
| Glossary Index | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X Y Z |
Sand CastingA process where molten metal is poured into a mold of compacted sand. The molds can only be used once. The process is costly, including finishing the fairly rough casting. Satin FinishSlightly textured or brushed surface having a fine grain that reflects light with some diffusion. ScallopsThe arch or scallop-shaped pattern on a light fixture. SceneSpecific setting for a group of dimmers channels or zone. A multi-scene control allows you to select the different setting by pushing a button. SconceWall bracket fixture derived from the form of a candelabra, often with exposed or decorative light sources. ShadeAn opaque or translucent covering on luminaries and portable lamps to shield the light source. Redirects the light and enhances decoration. Shade MeasurementMeasure in this order: Top across, bottom across, slant of the sides, height. SilhouettingAccent lighting technique that creates a dramatic outline by back lighting. Also used in landscape lighting. Slide DimmersSlide dimmers operate via a slide toggle, providing a full-range of manual dimming control. Some are equipped with a touch-button that allows you to return to the previous lighting level. Others have an indicator light that glows in the dark for easy location. Sloped CeilingsThe flexibility of track lighting can be a major help when trying to light from a sloped ceiling. Most recessed fixtures cannot be aimed to light art on an adjacent wall, while track lighting fixtures allow you to do so easily. SoffitIn architecture, the underside of an overhead component, such as an arch, cornice, beam or balcony. Often used to describe an area of the ceiling that drops below the primary surface. Soft or Lined ShadeShade that is lined with fabric. Soft-White LampIncandescent lamp with a dense, milky-white silica coating on the inside of the bulb. Diffuses the light and completely conceals the light filament. Solid BrassFixture or parts made entirely of brass, not plated or simulated. Solid brass parts are “solid brass”, not “solid parts.” Often they are hollow castings or tubing. Solid StateElectronics that use semi-conductor chips and circuitry. Southwest StyleThis style evolved from furnishings used in the rural Southwestern United States, particularly in Santa Fe. Lighting fixtures feature simple forms and lines with terra cotta finishes and animal or regional motifs. Specialty LightingA broad term referring to everything from line and low voltage strip lights to special display or controlled lighting as seen in retail and commercial applications. Specular FinishHighly polished and mirror-like. Semi-specular finish is generally bright, but without a well-defined mirror image. SpiderThe cross frame near the top of a shade. SpinningThe process of shaping a disk of metal by rotating it on a lathe and pushing it with a forming tool. Also, a part made this way. Spot LampReflectorized lamp with a narrow light distribution. SquaresShort for recessed square downlights, which are usually shallow fixtures with diffusers or lenses. Stainless SteelStainless steel resists corrosion and has a rich, deep luster. It is particularly used in bathroom and kitchen settings for a clean, contemporary look. StampingInexpensive way to form sheet metal by hitting it with a die. Step LightsStep Lights are recessed into walls and stairs so they illuminate the treads of stairs or pathways. An eye shield is often used to block direct view of the light source. StrassCrystal of the ultimate chemical purity, saturated with more than 30% lead oxide, cut and polished with ultimate precision by a machine. This is the finest crystal available and also the most expensive. Surface MountedSurface-mounted fixtures are also know as ceiling mounted fixtures. They attach directly or close to the ceiling. The light distribution is often semi-direct or general diffuse. SwagMaterial or chain hanging in a decorative fashion between two points. Swing ArmA table or wall mounted lamp that uses a moveable horizontal arm, allowing it to be positioned any number of ways. Switch LegWiring that connects the switch or dimmer output to the fixture or load being controlled. |
| back to top |