the Enlightenment

noun

: a movement of the 18th century that stressed the belief that science and logic give people more knowledge and understanding than tradition and religion

Examples of the Enlightenment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But, as a figure of the Enlightenment and thus a believer in reason and science, the former president discounted the miracles associated with Jesus — including his virgin birth and supposed resurrection. — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2026

The hotel dates from 1740, when it was built by Vicente Diego Alberti Mercadal, whose great-grandson Vicente Alberti Vidal, a theatre enthusiast, was important during the Enlightenment. — Adrienne Wyper, TheWeek, 22 June 2026

More recently, historians have suggested that men did encroach on midwifery practices, but much earlier than the early modern period; and that female midwives still undertook the vast majority of maternity care well into the Enlightenment. — Literary Hub, 16 June 2026

Historically, humanists, especially since the Enlightenment, have defined themselves against religion generally, and against Christianity specifically. — Peter Wehner, The Atlantic, 10 June 2026