enlighten — to give someone greater knowledge and understanding about something
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to give someone greater knowledge and understanding about something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈlaɪtən/
Example Sentences
- Could you enlighten me about why pineapple on pizza is so controversial?
- The teacher enlightened students about the importance of financial literacy.
- My grandmother enlightened me that 'because I said so' is actually a valid argument.
enlighten
VERB[/ɪnˈlaɪtən/]
to give someone greater knowledge and understanding about something
The old monk's words enlighten the young traveler under a starry sky.
Knowledge can brighten what used to frighten and enlighten!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English enlightenen, formed from the prefix en- (to cause to be) combined with light, which comes from Old English lēoht. The word originally meant 'to illuminate or shed light upon' and evolved to mean 'to provide intellectual or spiritual insight'.
Breakdown
en- (to cause to be) + light (luminous radiation) + -en (verb suffix) = enlighten
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Could you enlighten me about why pineapple on pizza is so controversial?”
“The teacher enlightened students about the importance of financial literacy.”
“My grandmother enlightened me that 'because I said so' is actually a valid argument.”
“Reading philosophy books can enlighten your perspective on life.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.