enlightenment

noun

en·​light·​en·​ment in-ˈlī-tᵊn-mənt 

en-

1

: the act or means of enlightening : the state of being enlightened

2

capitalized : a philosophical movement of the 18th century marked by a rejection of traditional social, religious, and political ideas and an emphasis on rationalism

—used with the

3

Buddhism : a final blessed state marked by the absence of desire or suffering

Examples of enlightenment in a Sentence

the search for spiritual enlightenment

His comments failed to provide enlightenment.

the enlightenment of the public through education

Recent Examples on the Web

At first blush, that concept of personal fulfillment or enlightenment may seem better suited to the realms of religion or spirituality than personal finance. —Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2024

But the Clipper mission signifies a dawning era of enlightenment as this region’s subsurface seas snap into sharper focus. —Nadia Drake, Scientific American, 14 Oct. 2024

This is a powerful moment for healing and connection — deep emotional conversations bring enlightenment. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 8 Oct. 2024

Drake, thank you and may this next journey be one of great enlightenment. —Shania Russell, EW.com, 29 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined at sense 1