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enlightened — having or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook

Part of speech: ADJECTIVE

Definition: having or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook

Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈlaɪtənd/

Example Sentences

  • The enlightened boss let employees work from home in pajamas.
  • Her enlightened parenting style involved bribing kids with ice cream for good behavior.
  • The company adopted an enlightened policy toward employee mental health.

enlightened

ADJECTIVE

[/ɪnˈlaɪtənd/]

having or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook

After years of study, the monk became truly enlightened under the old tree.
💡 Concept

After years of study, the monk became truly enlightened under the old tree.

Once frightened, now brightened and enlightened!
🎵 Rhyme

Once frightened, now brightened and enlightened!

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🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ɪnˈlaɪtənd/
🇬🇧 UK/ɪnˈlaɪtənd/

🌳Etymology

Prefixen--
Rootlight
Suffix--ed

Origin

The word 'enlightened' emerged in the 18th century during the Age of Enlightenment, emphasizing rational thought and intellectual clarity. It derives from the Old English 'leohtan' (to light) combined with the prefix 'en-' (to cause or put into), symbolizing the metaphorical transition from darkness (ignorance) to light (knowledge).

Breakdown

en- (to cause/put into) + light (illumination, knowledge) + -en (verb-forming suffix) + -ed (past participle), literally meaning 'caused to be illuminated or to have received light'.

🎵Rhyme

frightened
brightened
tightened

🔗Collocations

enlightened mind
enlightened society
enlightened leadership
enlightened thinking
enlightened approach
become enlightened

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The enlightened boss let employees work from home in pajamas.”

😄 Fun example

“Her enlightened parenting style involved bribing kids with ice cream for good behavior.”

“The company adopted an enlightened policy toward employee mental health.”

“After years of meditation, he became truly enlightened about life's priorities.”

📚Related Words

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