enlightenment

noun

Definition of enlightenmentnext
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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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 enlightenment The poem depicts writing as a joyful quest for enlightenment, of transforming darkness into light. — Literary Hub, 6 July 2026 Buddhists believe elephants are Buddha-like, symbolizing patience, wisdom and enlightenment. — ABC News, 3 July 2026 And now at Ellis Island, there is a lady holding a torch of enlightenment. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 25 June 2026 Shugendō, a mix of Shintoism, Buddhism and Taoism, involves hiking in sacred mountains in order to attain spiritual enlightenment. — Catherine Heald, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for enlightenment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enlightenment
  1. education
  2. knowledge
  3. scholarship
Noun
  • Gates is optimistic about AI's potential impact on healthcare, education, agriculture, scientific research, government services, small businesses, and more.
    — Jeff Haden, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026
  • To grow its talent pool, GSK India has early career programs such as the xCEL Trainee Program for graduates and initiatives like the GSK Scholars Programme, which aims to support students pursuing STEM education in the country.
    — Charlotte Hu, Time, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of education
Noun
  • Desai said the group separately verified with people with direct knowledge of the matter that the exchange is under consideration.
    — Jake Spring The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 30 Aug. 2026
  • From one source that had strong knowledge of the Cowboys’ roster, Jones is viewed as a clear upgrade over the depth that was at the tackle spot in Dallas, although Jones will need a few weeks to return to his maximum physical skill set.
    — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of knowledge
Noun
  • Lo is putting that mission into practice through the 2026 MHG Companion Scholarship Program, which provided scholarships to 100 students, paired with mentorship and long-term support.
    — True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • For the largest programs, athletes can now receive a package that combines scholarships, NIL opportunities and direct revenue-sharing payments.
    — Joshua Hong, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of scholarship

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Cite this Entry

“Enlightenment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enlightenment. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on enlightenment

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about enlightenment

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