A strobe light is a kind of lighting device that produces rapid, intense flashes of light to create a strobe effect. There are a number of different words and phrases that can be used as synonyms for a strobe light, including flashbulb, strobe lamp, strobe torch, and flashing light. Other similar terms include strobe beacon, strobe flare, and oscillating light. These different names and descriptions all refer to the same basic concept of a light source that flashes rapidly to create a pulsating effect. These devices are commonly used in a variety of different applications, such as in photography, stage lighting, and emergency vehicles.