Meaning & Definition of word "Enlightenment"

Enlightenment

/ɪnˈlaɪ.tən.mənt/

1. The state of gaining knowledge, understanding, or spiritual insight.
- Example: She experienced a moment of enlightenment during her meditation retreat.
2. A historical movement in the 17th and 18th centuries emphasizing reason and individualism rather than tradition.
- Example: The Enlightenment inspired a wave of revolutionary ideas about democracy and human rights.
3. The act of enlightening or the state of being enlightened.
- Example: The teacher's goal was to bring enlightenment to her students through critical thinking.

From Middle English 'enlightenment', from Old French 'enlightenment', from 'enlighten' + '-ment'.

illumination of the mind:

A sudden realization or understanding.

enlightenment period:

Referring to the historical period known as the Age of Enlightenment.

spiritual enlightenment:

A state of having gained greater knowledge and insight into existence.

illuminate:

To provide information or enlightenment.

insight:

The capacity to gain an accurate understanding.

awareness:

Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.

Meaning: A moment of clarity or realization.

Example Sentence: When he finally understood the math problem, he felt a total enlightenment.

Meaning: A buzz or high feeling related to knowledge acquisition.

Example Sentence: After attending the seminar, I was on an enlightenment high for days.