ENLIGHTEN Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

enlighten

verb

in-ˈlī-tᵊn

Definition of enlighten

as in to inform

to give information to the lecturer at the planetarium enlightened us about the latest astronomical discoveries

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to educate

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 enlighten And audiences clap to show their appreciation for the effort made to entertain, educate or enlighten us. — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 1 June 2026 Ambiguity clouds the conversation and risks leaving your protégé more confused than enlightened. — Chip Bell, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 But Taraborrelli believes that revisiting a moment in time when Jackson and his music became a cultural phenomenon, as well as enlightening new generations to his otherworldliness as an entertainer, should be a reason for unity. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026 One of the enlightened, somebody named Mike Freiberg, a DFL representative out Golden Valley way, had the audacity to author a bill that would reduce by 10 percent the aid sent by the state to any city that does not the fly the enlightened flag. — Joe Soucheray, Twin Cities, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for enlighten

Recent Examples of Synonyms for enlighten

Verb

Emergency responders arrived on the scene and were informed that the victim had been pulled by the current flowing through Sebonac Creek into the Great Peconic Bay, the statement said.

— Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 6 July 2026
The company also informed members about 2026 premium changes through phone calls, text messages, regular mail, or email, Baiocchi said.

— Susan Jaffe, NPR, 6 July 2026

Definition of inform

Verb

Its young people are increasingly educated and ambitious but many are frustrated over fierce competition for limited jobs.

— Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
During the two decades of American occupation, Afghanistan experienced a sort of peace, one in which women could be educated, work as professionals, and even serve in the military.

— Bethanne Patrick, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

Definition of educate

Verb

During Murdaugh’s first status hearing on Monday, June 29, Judge Debra McCaslin did not rule on the DNA evidence, telling defense attorneys to clarify if the sample was viable.

— Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
My parents tell stories about me sleeping through loud construction, alarms, and heavy knocks on my bedroom door.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 July 2026

Definition of tell

Verb

Enterprises are advised to carefully evaluate these solutions based on ownership, cost, and enforcement, as the industry seeks to standardize this critical layer for AI agent deployment.

— Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
To minimize risks during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises incorporating frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

— CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 6 July 2026

Definition of advise

Verb

People are instructed to scan the QR link on the letter that will lead them to a list of available appointments to reschedule their test.

— Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026
The agency has instructed contractors that families at the facility cannot be referred to as prisoners, detainees or inmates, records show.

— JACK BROOK, ABC News, 6 July 2026