illuminating

adjective

il·​lu·​mi·​nat·​ing i-ˈlü-mə-ˌnā-tiŋ How to pronounce illuminating (audio)
: providing insight, clarity, or understanding : highly informative
an illuminating remark/discussion
… much of the information is quite illuminatingGlenn Kenny
illuminatingly adverb

Examples of illuminating in a Sentence

the show is an illuminating tutorial on ways to prepare popular dishes using wholesome ingredients
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her sensible, non-dogmatic applications of spiritual insight are an illuminating delight. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 26 May 2025 Kevin O’Connell gave an illuminating quote last week. Alec Lewis, New York Times, 13 May 2025 The early rounds of the NBA playoffs are the most illuminating weeks of the season. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 7 May 2025 The more illuminating dynamic is the one between Nora and Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas). Peter Debruge, Variety, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for illuminating

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of illuminating was in 1644

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Cite this Entry

“Illuminating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/illuminating. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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