noun
lightning
B1
Blitz (der) primarily means 'lightning' — a natural electrical discharge and a bright flash. It can also be used figuratively for a sudden, rapid action (as in a 'blitz'). Noun plural: Blitze. Regular declension; no irregular plural or special prepositions.
Examples
Der Ast wurde vom Blitz getroffen, als die Männer sich im Haus aufhielten.
The branch was struck by lightning while the men were inside the house.
Beim Gewitter gab es lauten Donner und einen hellen Blitz.
During the thunderstorm, there was loud thunder and a bright flash of lightning.
Der Blitz schlug in den Baum ein.
The lightning struck the tree.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine a bright jagged streak across a dark sky.
Same as English 'blitz' (quick flash) — think of a sudden strike.
der — imagine a strong male figure named 'Der Blitz' striking the sky: masculine.
Notes
Plural is 'Blitze'. Common in compounds (e.g., 'Blitzlicht' = flashbulb).