illuminated

UK: ɪˈluːmɪneɪtɪd | US: ɪˈluːmɪneɪtɪd

Definition

  1. adj. filled with light; brightly lit

  2. vt. (past tense of illuminate) 1. to light up or brighten

    1. to clarify or explain something intellectually
    1. to decorate with lights or colors
Structure
il <in/upon>lumin <light>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word illuminate traces back to Latin illuminare ("to light up"), combining in- (upon) and lumen (light). The root lumin persists in English words like luminous and luminary. Over time, illuminate expanded from literal lighting (e.g., candles) to metaphorical "enlightenment" (e.g., knowledge). The suffix -ate marks it as a verb.

Examples

  1. The cathedral was beautifully illuminated for the holiday.

  2. Her explanation illuminated the complex theory for the students.

  3. Ancient manuscripts were often illuminated with gold leaf.

  4. The scientist’s discovery illuminated a new path for research.

  5. The full moon illuminated the night sky.