1. the state of having knowledge or understanding about something
2. a European intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries emphasizing reason and individualism
Usage: historical; often capitalized
3. in Buddhism and Hinduism, a state of spiritual insight and freedom from suffering
Usage: religious

Examples

• The documentary provided enlightenment about climate change.
• She sought enlightenment through meditation and study.
• The Enlightenment period produced many influential philosophers.
• Voltaire was a key figure of the Enlightenment.
• The monk spent years pursuing spiritual enlightenment.
• Reading that book was a moment of enlightenment for me.
• The teacher’s explanation brought sudden enlightenment to the confused students.