Definition of the word sidelight

The term "sidelight" originally referred to a secondary light source that was placed beside or near the main source of light in a room, such as a window or a candlestick. This additional source of illumination, typically slightly dimmer and more directional than the primary light, was used to provide supplementary lighting for specific tasks or to create pleasant ambience. The word "sidelight" derives from the Middle English "si(d)eligt," which means "on one side" or "secondary light," and can be traced back to the Old English "sealtan," meaning "dull" or "subsidiary." The modern-day usage of "sidelight" in architecture and interior design refers to a narrow vertical window placed beside a main door or window to admit daylight and provide a more dramatic effect to the interior space.