enlightenment
UK: ɪnˈlaɪtnmənt | US: ɪnˈlaɪtnmənt
n. the state of gaining spiritual or intellectual insight
n. the act of enlightening or being enlightened
n. (historical) the 18th-century European intellectual movement emphasizing reason and individualism
The word "enlightenment" originates from the verb "enlighten," which combines "en-" (a prefix meaning "make" or "cause to be") and "light" (from Old English lēoht, meaning "brightness"). The suffix "-ment" transforms it into a noun, denoting the state or process of gaining insight. Historically, it became associated with the 18th-century intellectual movement (the Enlightenment), symbolizing the metaphorical "light" of reason dispelling the "darkness" of ignorance.
The philosopher sought enlightenment through meditation.
The Enlightenment challenged traditional religious and political authority.
Her words brought sudden enlightenment to the confused student.
Scientific discoveries contributed to the era of enlightenment.
He described his spiritual journey as a path to enlightenment.