enlighten

[en-lahyt-n] / ɛnˈlaɪt n /

VERB

explain thoroughly; make aware

Synonyms

STRONGEST

acquaint advise civilize edify educate inform uplift

STRONG

apprise brief catechize convert counsel direct disclose divulge elucidate guide illume illuminate illumine imitate improve inculcate indoctrinate inspirit instruct persuade preach reveal save school teach tell train update

WEAK

cause to understand give faith give the lowdown give the word let in on open up put on to

Antonyms

STRONGEST

conceal deceive hide

STRONG

harm hurt keep learn listen misguide mislead neglect obscure secrete suppress

WEAK

be vague bewilder confound confuse delude puzzle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When you get a varied body of work, it can enlighten your own life in a way, and that’s a great feeling.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 17, 2026

So can you enlighten us as to the great wisdom Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito share in their own concurrences?

From Slate • Jun. 18, 2025

“I believe Earlonne will continue to educate, enlighten and enrich the lives of his peers at San Quentin and the many, many people who listen faithfully to ‘Ear Hustle,’” Brown wrote in 2018.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2024

Because I break bread with and claim to be part of this marked construct, this otherness, complete with jail time within the carceral state, allow me to enlighten you.

From Salon • Jan. 1, 2024

“What am I doing here, Strange? Are you going to enlighten me?”

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor

Vocabulary lists containing enlighten

"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 14–18

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Ronald Reagan, "Tear Down This Wall" (1987)

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Titan's Curse

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!