# Illuminati

/ɪlˌuːmɪnˈɑːti/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a secret group of people who are believed to have special knowledge or power and control world events. People often use this word when talking about conspiracy theories.

For teachers: a secret society or elite group alleged to exert clandestine influence over global affairs. When capitalised, it refers specifically to an 18th-century Bavarian secret society founded on Enlightenment ideals.

## Examples

- Some people believe the Illuminati control the world's banks.
- The documentary explores how internet forums helped revive old myths about the Illuminati and their supposed symbols.
- While the historical Illuminati were a short-lived group of rationalist thinkers, modern pop culture has transformed the name into a catch-all term for any perceived shadow government.

## Usage notes

- Plural in form and takes a plural verb; the singular 'illuminatus' is extremely rare in modern English.

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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.