1. to light up or brighten with light
2. to clarify or explain something; to make clear or understandable
3. to decorate a manuscript or book with colored designs or pictures
Usage: historical; art

Examples

• The streetlights illuminate the dark pathway at night.
• Candles illuminated the romantic dinner table.
• The teacher's examples helped illuminate the difficult concept.
• Her research illuminated new aspects of the historical event.
• Medieval monks would illuminate manuscripts with gold leaf and bright colors.
• The spotlight illuminated the stage during the performance.
• His speech illuminated the importance of environmental protection.