belys

Belys is a verb form used in Scandinavian languages, most commonly as the imperative or as part of the conjugation of verbs meaning to illuminate or light up. In Norwegian and Swedish, related infinitives are belyse/belysa, and the imperative form is typically belys. This form is used to give a direct command to illuminate a space, object, or scene, for example in signs, instructions, or stage lighting. In practice, you might see phrases such as “Belys området” (Illuminate the area) or “Belys displayen” (Light up the display).

Etymology and related forms: Belys derives from the root lys, meaning light, with a prefixed causative or intensifying element common in Germanic languages. Related nouns include belysning, meaning illumination or lighting, and belyst, the past participle meaning illuminated. The base verb belyse (to illuminate) has broader usage in both literal lighting and metaphorical senses such as clarifying information.

Usage notes: The imperative belys is chiefly used in direct instructions, signage, and technical contexts related to lighting or visibility. The term encompasses both physical illumination and metaphorical enlightenment, such as making something clearer or more understandable. While primarily found in Norwegian and Swedish contexts, cognate forms appear in other Scandinavian languages with similar meanings.

See also: lys, lyse, belysa, belysning, belyst.