enlightening

adjective

en·​light·​en·​ing in-ˈlīt-niŋ 

-ˈlī-tᵊn-iŋ,

en-

: providing or tending to provide knowledge, understanding, or insight

a very enlightening discussion

… he takes readers on enlightening excursions through the nature of Judaism, Hegelian philosophy, wherever his curiosity heads.

—George Johnson

enlighteningly adverb

Synonyms

• educational
• educative
• illuminating
• informational
• informative
• informatory
• instructional
• instructive

Examples of enlightening in a Sentence

an enlightening pamphlet about the major changes that consumers can expect from their cable and Internet service providers

Recent Examples on the Web

That was the goal, enlightening to people here, but also being a powerful rallying call to people in Russia, also because his perspective is so unique. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 24 Jan. 2025

Herbs For Health: Enhance your well-being and strengthen your resilience with the power of herbs in this enlightening class. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2025

Rice was a brilliant interviewee and his analysis, and Stu’s writing makes for a fascinating and enlightening read. —The Athletic Uk Staff, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024

Open family discussions about death and legacy are some real enlightening issues that the book talks about, ensuring everyone is on the same page and prepared for the future. —Kimberly Harms, USA TODAY, 28 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined above