enlightened

1 of 2

adjective

en·​light·​ened in-ˈlī-tᵊnd How to pronounce enlightened (audio)
en-
Synonyms of enlightened
1
: freed from ignorance and misinformation
an enlightened people
an enlightened time
2
: based on full comprehension of the problems involved
issued an enlightened ruling

enlightened

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of enlighten

Examples of enlightened in a Sentence

Adjective an enlightened approach to prison reform
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
Yet still, the spectacle of the enlightened president, listening to both the people, particularly the younger generation, and his military commanders, remains. — Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 22 July 2026 Twenty years ago, in less enlightened times, says Travis, a band would have just kicked him out. — Laura Snapes, Pitchfork, 9 July 2026 Often times, individuals are searching for an enlightened approach to their everyday existence, and the focus can be on relaxation, wellness, adventure, stress management or even romance. — Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 Through enlightened leadership, and my own trial and error, Mammoth Lakes managed to create a sense of stewardship for the town’s wild kingdom. — Steve Searles, Mercury News, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for enlightened

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of enlightened was in 1578

Rhymes for enlightened

See All Rhymes for enlightened

Browse Nearby Words

enlighten
enlightened
enlightened self-interest
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Enlightened.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enlightened. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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