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Translate files Enlightenment
/ɪnˈlaɪ.tən.mənt/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The state of gaining knowledge, understanding, or spiritual insight.
She experienced a moment of enlightenment during her meditation retreat.
A historical movement in the 17th and 18th centuries emphasizing reason and individualism rather than tradition.
The Enlightenment inspired a wave of revolutionary ideas about democracy and human rights.
The act of enlightening or the state of being enlightened.
The teacher's goal was to bring enlightenment to her students through critical thinking.
Etymology
From Middle English 'enlightenment', from Old French 'enlightenment', from 'enlighten' + '-ment'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
illuminate
To provide information or enlightenment.
insight
The capacity to gain an accurate understanding.
awareness
Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Slang Meanings
A moment of clarity or realization.
When he finally understood the math problem, he felt a total enlightenment.
A buzz or high feeling related to knowledge acquisition.
After attending the seminar, I was on an enlightenment high for days.