Illuminate

/ɪˈluː.mɪ.neɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To light up; to make something visible or bright by providing light.
The streetlights illuminate the road at night, making it safe for pedestrians.
To clarify or explain a subject or topic for better understanding.
The professor used diagrams to illuminate the complex theories of physics.
To decorate with lights or bright colors, particularly as part of a celebration.
The city will illuminate the buildings for the festival this weekend.

Etymology

From Latin 'illuminare', meaning 'to light up or adorn with light'

Common Phrases and Expressions

illuminate one's mind
to provide clarity or understanding to someone
illuminated manuscript
a manuscript decorated with gold, silver, or vivid colors
illuminate a path
to show the way clearly, both literally and figuratively

Related Words

light
a natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible
enlighten
to give someone greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation
clarify
to make (a statement or situation) less confused and more comprehensible

Slang Meanings

to inspire or 'bring to light' a great idea
The new project should really illuminate our goals for the year.
to understand or grasp something clearly
After that lecture, everything just clicked; it really illuminated for me.