as in instructive
providing useful information or knowledge
an enlightening pamphlet about the major changes that consumers can expect from their cable and Internet service providers
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in informing
to give information to
the lecturer at the planetarium enlightened us about the latest astronomical discoveries
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in inspiring
to provide (someone) with moral or spiritual understanding
many people around the world have been enlightened by the teachings of Gautama Buddha
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of enlightening
Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2026
This has been a very rewarding (and) enlightening (season).
—Thomas Jones, Austin American Statesman, 13 Mar. 2026
David Frum, The Atlantic, 11 Mar. 2026
But there really aren’t any incorrect decisions, as every show promises enlightening sonic rewards.
—Bret Saunders, Denver Post, 1 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for enlightening
Adjective
The most enlightening section covers the recording of Philosophy of the World, and Kwapis unearths a surprising number of eyewitnesses, given the amount of time that has since passed.
—Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2026
This has been a very rewarding (and) enlightening (season).
—Thomas Jones, Austin American Statesman, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
Beto O’Rourke, thank you so much for joining The David Frum Show and for enlightening us about Texas today.
—David Frum, The Atlantic, 11 Mar. 2026
But there really aren’t any incorrect decisions, as every show promises enlightening sonic rewards.
—Bret Saunders, Denver Post, 1 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for enlightening
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enlightening
Adjective
-
The radiologist’s case is the most instructive example on offer.—
Nick Lichtenberg,
Fortune,
7 Apr. 2026
-
However much the young Hatmaker had in common with Waters, though, their lives seem likely to trace two very different arcs—ones instructive about both American Christianity and the wider debate over what a good life looks like for women.—
Emma Green,
New Yorker,
6 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Ngatikaura reportedly sold his divorce to TMZ before informing his children.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
7 Apr. 2026
-
The city is required to display signs informing the public about the cameras.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
6 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Fragrance layering allows for infinite scent possibilities beyond the pre-prescribed notes in a single eau de parfum, inspiring both a spirit of play and individuality.—
Conçetta Ciarlo,
Vogue,
2 Apr. 2026
-
Plus, learn the awe-inspiring history behind these buildings and their architects.—
Encyclopedia Britannica,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Citizens Action Coalition members encouraged concerned ratepayers to stay informed, get organized, attend informative events and take action.—
Maya Wilkins,
Chicago Tribune,
8 Apr. 2026
-
There are also deleted scenes and a trailer, and an accompanying booklet is stuffed with informative essays and interviews (including an analysis by the always astute film noir expert Travis Woods).—
Jim Hemphill,
IndieWire,
1 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Google’s response to this report is telling.—
ArsTechnica,
ArsTechnica,
7 Apr. 2026
-
This newsroom-wide project brings fast facts as stories unfold — making sure our local officials and institutions are telling the truth, serving our communities well and following through on their promises.—
Nathan Pilling,
Kansas City Star,
6 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Though the financial savings enable Cristo Rey to redirect the money to educating high school students, Kendall said the benefits do more.—
Steve Sadin,
Chicago Tribune,
2 Apr. 2026
-
Following the introduction of courses in cosmetics and fragrances in 2023, the school added new classes aimed at educating and training in the professional channel to support the increasing demand for skilled figures, especially in the hair and makeup categories.—
Sandra Salibian,
Footwear News,
30 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
Clubs will be able to draw training and support from White Ribbon, while the UK government will collaborate with the league and its foundation on educational resources.—
Cerys Jones,
New York Times,
6 Apr. 2026
-
The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be construed as financial, investment or trading advice.—
USA TODAY,
USA Today,
6 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Authorities are advising parents to go to hospitals whenever someone is suspected to have measles.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
7 Apr. 2026
-
The Bar emphasizes that safeguarding client confidentiality is critical when using AI, advising attorneys to thoroughly vet technology providers and disclose the use of AI to clients when appropriate.—
Zachary Bynum,
CBS News,
7 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Enlightening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enlightening. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
