ENGLISH
REFERENCE

illuminated

adj.
US //ˌɪˈɫuməˌneɪtəd// UK //ɪlˈuːmɪnˌeɪtɪd// il·lu·mi·nat·ed
  1. 1 lit up (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    bright because light is shining on it.

    provided with light; brightened by a light source.

    Example

    The illuminated sign was easy to see from the road at night.

    Example

    The illuminated clock tower served as a beacon for travellers navigating the city streets after midnight.
  2. 2 decorated books (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    describing old books decorated with bright colours and gold.

    referring to a manuscript decorated with gold, silver, or brilliant colours, often including intricate miniature illustrations.

    Example

    The museum has a famous illuminated book from the Middle Ages.

    Example

    Scholars spent decades studying the illuminated manuscripts, marveling at the preservation of the vibrant lapis lazuli pigments used by the monks.

Last updated June 20, 2026