enlightenment Definition
- 1the state of having knowledge or understanding, or the act of giving someone knowledge or understanding
- 2a philosophical movement in the 18th century that emphasized reason and individualism over tradition and authority
Using enlightenment: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "enlightenment" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The book gave me a new enlightenment on the subject.
Example
The Enlightenment was a period of great intellectual growth in Europe.
Example
He sought enlightenment through meditation and self-reflection.
enlightenment Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for enlightenment
Phrases with enlightenment
a state of being where one has achieved a higher level of spiritual awareness or understanding
Example
Many people seek spiritual enlightenment through meditation or religious practices.
a period in European history during the 18th century characterized by a focus on reason, science, and individualism
Example
The Age of Enlightenment saw many great advancements in science and philosophy.
self-enlightenment
the process of gaining knowledge or understanding about oneself and one's place in the world
Example
He embarked on a journey of self-enlightenment to discover his true purpose in life.
Origins of enlightenment
from en- 'in' + light + -en, modeled on French éclairissement
Summary: enlightenment in Brief
Enlightenment [ɪnˈlaɪtnmənt] refers to the state of having knowledge or understanding, or the act of giving someone knowledge or understanding. It also denotes a philosophical movement in the 18th century that emphasized reason and individualism over tradition and authority. Examples include 'The book gave me a new enlightenment on the subject.' and 'He sought enlightenment through meditation and self-reflection.' Phrases like 'spiritual enlightenment' and 'age of enlightenment' extend the concept to spiritual and historical contexts.
