# enlightened

/ˌɛnˈɫaɪtənd/ (US) · /ɛnlˈaɪtənd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/enlightened
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. wise and modern

adjective · CEFR C1 · Academic

having a modern, fair, and wise way of thinking that is not based on old-fashioned ideas or prejudice.

For teachers: possessing or showing a rational, modern, and well-informed outlook; free from ignorance or prejudice.

- The company has an enlightened policy on parental leave that supports all families.
- The government's enlightened approach to urban planning prioritises green spaces and public transit over private vehicle infrastructure.

### 2. spiritually aware

adjective · CEFR C2 · Formal

having reached a state of great spiritual knowledge or peace, especially in religions like Buddhism.

For teachers: having attained a state of spiritual awakening or transcendence; often used in the context of Eastern philosophies.

- After years of meditation, the monk was considered an enlightened teacher.
- The text describes the journey of an enlightened soul who has finally broken free from the cycle of worldly suffering.

## Examples

- The company has an enlightened policy on parental leave.
- An enlightened approach to criminal justice focuses more on rehabilitation than on purely punitive measures.
- The philosopher argued that an enlightened society must protect the rights of its smallest minorities even when their views challenge the prevailing consensus of the majority.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.