Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for enlighten. Search instead for hafenansichten.
Definitions

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.

I can give Bill something that people don’t understand and progress the story and maybe enlighten people.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 28, 2026

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

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

I almost hold my breath, waiting for her to get to me so that she can somehow enlighten me.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.