# enlightenment

/ˌɛnˈɫaɪtənmənt/ (US) · /ɛnlˈaɪtənmənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/enlightenment
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the state of understanding

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the state of understanding something deeply or clearly after being taught or having a new experience.

For teachers: the state of being intellectually or spiritually instructed; a state of clarity and knowledge that replaces ignorance.

- The book provided great enlightenment on the complex history of the region.
- The seminar was designed to provide spiritual enlightenment to those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'on' or 'about' to indicate the subject of the knowledge.

### 2. historical movement

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a period in the 1700s when European thinkers began to emphasize science, reason, and individual rights.

For teachers: the 18th-century intellectual movement that advocated for reason as the primary source of authority and legitimacy.

- Many modern ideas about democracy and human rights come from the Enlightenment.
- Scholars often debate the extent to which the Enlightenment influenced the political upheavals of the late eighteenth century.

Teaching tip: When referring to the historical period, it is almost always capitalized as 'the Enlightenment'.

### 3. spiritual awakening

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

in some religions, a state of perfect knowledge or peace where you understand the truth about life.

For teachers: the attainment of ultimate spiritual knowledge or insight, particularly within Buddhist or Hindu traditions.

- He spent years meditating in the mountains in search of enlightenment.
- The path to enlightenment in Zen Buddhism requires disciplined practice and the transcendence of the ego.

Usage: In this sense, the word is uncountable.

## Examples

- The monk meditated for years in search of spiritual enlightenment.
- The Enlightenment brought about major shifts in European society, challenging the absolute power of monarchs and the church.
- While secular scholars study the Enlightenment for its political and scientific revolutions, spiritual seekers pursue a different kind of enlightenment through rigorous meditation and self-denial.

---

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.