as in education
the process by which one gains a greater understanding of something
The teacher's supplementary notes did provide some enlightenment on the difficult material. Those seeking enlightenment on Eastern philosophy should sign up for the class.
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Recent Examples of enlightenment
The new addition will continue the Freedom Center's priorities of education, empowerment and enlightenment to reflect on the Civil Rights movement in Oklahoma.
—
Maria Guinnip, Oklahoman, 14 Apr. 2026
This symbolizes the Buddha’s appeal to the earth to be a witness of his enlightenment and of his defeat of the demon Mara.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Apr. 2026
After many years, James heads to Jerusalem, hoping for enlightenment from Esther but jarringly confronted by the harsh realities of the centuries-old, internecine conflict in that region.
—The Know, Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2026
International Vesak Day celebrates the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
—Sarah Hepola, Dallas Morning News, 27 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for enlightenment
Maria Guinnip, Oklahoman, 14 Apr. 2026
This symbolizes the Buddha’s appeal to the earth to be a witness of his enlightenment and of his defeat of the demon Mara.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Apr. 2026
After many years, James heads to Jerusalem, hoping for enlightenment from Esther but jarringly confronted by the harsh realities of the centuries-old, internecine conflict in that region.
—The Know, Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2026
International Vesak Day celebrates the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
—Sarah Hepola, Dallas Morning News, 27 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for enlightenment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enlightenment
Noun
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This carnivore’s sanctum offers an education in offal, mapping the pig from trompa (snout) to rabo (tail).—
Ligaya Mishan,
New York Times,
11 May 2026
-
Expanding access to high-quality early education, supporting the workforce behind it, and giving families clearer information is all part of the solution.—
Tina Dello Russo,
Boston Herald,
10 May 2026
Noun
-
Kerr has reached an agreement in principle on a two-year contract to continue coaching the Warriors, according to a person with knowledge of the negotiations.—
Janie McCauley,
Los Angeles Times,
10 May 2026
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Time to test your knowledge with the Tribune’s Quotes of the Week quiz for May 3 to 9.—
Claire Malon,
Chicago Tribune,
9 May 2026
Noun
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The Hamilton Prize was merit-based and included a full four-year scholarship to attend Wesleyan.—
Christopher Arnott,
Hartford Courant,
9 May 2026
-
His father was a college star who almost went pro, and pursuing a sports scholarship seemed like the thing to do.—
Seija Rankin,
HollywoodReporter,
9 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Enlightenment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enlightenment. Accessed 15 May. 2026.
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