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.

Its narrative offers few character sketches, jumps around in time and digresses into subjects that distract more than they enlighten.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 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 have committed my life to initiatives related to Stanley’s life and death that can enlighten and support others and save lives,” Lucas said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2025

"I think in the spirit of the bikers, Dave would want me to continue to have fun and to educate, to inform, to enlighten, to be slightly edgy," he says.

From BBC • Dec. 6, 2024

He said he would take it upon himself to enlighten each of them enough so that they wouldn’t allow themselves to be used.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Vocabulary lists containing enlighten

"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 14–18

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

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The Titan's Curse

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