BULB - ILLUMINANT - LIGHT SOURCE
LAMP – LUMINAIRE?
What is what?
In everyday language, especially for end customers, these terms are often used interchangeably and all refer to the same thing. But that is simply NOT true! Why? Find out here!
In German, there is often confusion between the terms ‘lampe’ and ‘leuchte’, as they sound similar but mean slightly different things. In English, it’s a bit simpler.
LED lamp with built-in LED light source.
BULB, LIGHT SOURCE or ILLUMINANT
The bulb, light source and illuminant are therefore synonyms. They refer to the actual source of light, i.e. the electrical components that generate the light. What is still referred to today as an incandescent bulb or incandescent lamp is actually correct and refers to the light source.
Consequently, halogen lamp, for example, should be referred to as halogen illuminant or halogen light source. But nobody does. Why? Here too, remnants of earlier linguistic usage are to blame. In the past, ‘lamp’ and ‘luminaire’ were almost indistinguishable, e.g. the paraffin lamp. In that case, the entire device is the light source.
LAMP or LUMINAIRE
The term lamp or luminaire refers to the entire unit used for lighting. It consists of many individual components, e.g. mounting bracket, power connection, socket, etc. Lamps come in a wide variety of designs, types, materials and constructions. Starting with classic ceiling lamps, pendant lamps, table lamps, etc.
In some, the LED light source is already permanently fitted and cannot be replaced; others can be fitted with your preferred light source.
A beautiful paper lamp from Think Paper
Light sources and bulbs are therefore usually fitted into the base of a lamp, with the electrical connection being made within the fitting’s socket.
In the vast majority of cases, you can replace the light source in standard lamps without any special knowledge or tools. This makes a lot of sense, as the lamp usually has a longer lifespan than the light source.
So, don’t get confused, especially when shopping online! Just remember:
The lamp is the light source and goes inside the lamp.
By the way: in German, the incandescent bulb is often referred to as a ‘Glühbirne’ because its shape resembles a pear.
Consumers tend to use the term, whilst professionals throw their hands up in horror. A good compromise in German is to refer to the light source as an ‘Glühlampe’; in English everyone knows that this is a incandescent bulb what is meant.
