enlighten

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

IPA: /ɪnˈlaɪ.tən/

Phonetic: in-LY-ten

Definitions

1. To provide knowledge or insight; to inform or educate.
2. To give spiritual or intellectual illumination.
3. To free from ignorance or misconceptions.

Usage Examples

• The teacher sought to enlighten her students on the importance of history.
• The book enlightened him about the complexities of human psychology.
• Can you enlighten me on the rules of this game?

Etymology

From Middle English enlightenen, from Old English inlīhtan ("to illuminate"), from in- + lighten ("to make light or bright"). The word evolved to mean intellectual and spiritual illumination by the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Educate
• Inform
• Illuminate
• Instruct
• Clarify

Antonyms

• Confuse
• Mislead
• Obscure
• Bewilder
• Deceive

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ɪnˈlaɪ.tən/
• British English: /ɪnˈlaɪ.tən/ (similar but sometimes with a softer "t")
• Australian English: /ənˈlaɪ.tən/ (schwa sound at the start)

Historical Usage

The term "enlighten" has been used since the Middle Ages but gained significant cultural relevance during the 18th-century Age of Enlightenment, when it symbolized intellectual progress and rational thought.

Cultural Nuances

"Enlighten" is widely used in both secular and religious contexts. In spirituality, it often refers to attaining higher wisdom (e.g., Buddhist enlightenment). In everyday language, it simply means informing or educating someone.

More Information

The concept of enlightenment has shaped philosophical and cultural movements across the world. From the European Enlightenment period to Eastern religious teachings, the term has retained its core meaning of bringing clarity, truth, and wisdom.