chain lightning, forked lightning - a form of lightning that moves rapidly in a zigzag path with one end divided (fork-like)

atmospheric electricity - electrical discharges in the atmosphere

bolt, bolt of lightning, thunderbolt - a discharge of lightning accompanied by thunder

flash - a sudden intense burst of radiant energy

heat lightning - bright flashes of light near the horizon without thunder (especially on hot evenings); usually attributed to distant lightning that is reflected by clouds

sheet lighting - lightning that appears as a broad sheet; due to reflections of more distant lightning and to diffusion by the clouds