enlighten

verb

en·​light·​en in-ˈlī-tᵊn How to pronounce enlighten (audio)
en-
enlightened; enlightening in-ˈlīt-niŋ How to pronounce enlighten (audio)
-ˈlī-tᵊn-iŋ,
en-

transitive verb

1
a
: to furnish knowledge to : instruct
enlightened us about the problem
b
: to give spiritual insight to
2
archaic : illuminate

Examples of enlighten in a Sentence

I don't understand what's going on; can someone please enlighten me? the lecturer at the planetarium enlightened us about the latest astronomical discoveries
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
You are not distracted by their appearance but enlightened by their knowledge. Ticked Off, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 July 2025 Meanwhile, Venus in Gemini turns up the chatter, presenting the opportunity for closure or thought-provoking conversations that may enlighten you with a fresh perspective. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 18 July 2025 And eventually, end up at the Tō-ji Temple and become enlightened. Katherine Larson july 16, Literary Hub, 16 July 2025 As William Shakespeare had once taught people about being human, here was Chaplin to enlighten viewers on what laughter could mean. Colin Fleming, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for enlighten

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of enlighten was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Enlighten.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enlighten. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

enlighten

verb
en·​light·​en in-ˈlīt-ᵊn How to pronounce enlighten (audio)
enlightened; enlightening -ˈlīt-niŋ How to pronounce enlighten (audio)
-ᵊn-iŋ
: to give knowledge or understanding to : instruct
enlightened us about the problem
enlightenment
-ᵊn-mənt
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on enlighten

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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