as in education
the process by which one gains a greater understanding of something
The teacher's supplementary notes did provide some enlightenment on the difficult material. Those seeking enlightenment on Eastern philosophy should sign up for the class.
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Recent Examples of enlightenment
Like most red-blooded Americans, Fukuyama rejected the sour realist theory of international relations, which sees history not as a progression toward enlightenment and peace but as a cycle of conflict.
—
Richard K. Betts, Foreign Affairs, 21 Oct. 2010
With each revolution, the camera enters a darkened space, filled with visual noise, before emerging back into the light near the dwelling’s door, as if to achieve a form of temporary enlightenment before losing it again.
—Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 25 Dec. 2024
The driving forces of the moment are fixated less on enlightenment than on attacking, distorting and vanquishing.
—Jeffrey Fleishman, Los Angeles Times, 18 Dec. 2024
Faye has a perspective and style that is distinctly her own but offers insight and enlightenment that is appealingly universal.
—Vogue, 26 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for enlightenment 
Richard K. Betts, Foreign Affairs, 21 Oct. 2010
With each revolution, the camera enters a darkened space, filled with visual noise, before emerging back into the light near the dwelling’s door, as if to achieve a form of temporary enlightenment before losing it again.
—Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 25 Dec. 2024
The driving forces of the moment are fixated less on enlightenment than on attacking, distorting and vanquishing.
—Jeffrey Fleishman, Los Angeles Times, 18 Dec. 2024
Faye has a perspective and style that is distinctly her own but offers insight and enlightenment that is appealingly universal.
—Vogue, 26 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for enlightenment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enlightenment
Noun
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Kim said he’s been mulling legislation that could win bipartisan support and help people come together — perhaps investments in civics education or a national service program as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.—
Mary Clare Jalonick,
Chicago Tribune,
20 Jan. 2025
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Labor shortages, among other factors, are causing some hiring managers and supervisors to prioritize the weighted value of experience and skills above education.—
Terina Allen,
Forbes,
20 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Fire Marshals found both lithium-ion batteries, as well as traditional lead acid batteries, a source with knowledge of the case said.—
Thomas Tracy,
New York Daily News,
24 Jan. 2025
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Other research has found that clinicians’ lack of knowledge is partly to blame.—
Angela Haupt,
TIME,
24 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Federal assistance to individuals will not be affected, according to the memo — so Social Security, Medicare, food stamps, student loans and scholarships will all be unaffected.—
Chris Sommerfeldt,
New York Daily News,
28 Jan. 2025
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Here’s how to apply before the deadline: Who is eligible for college scholarships?—
Hannah Poukish,
Sacramento Bee,
27 Jan. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near enlightenment
Cite this Entry
“Enlightenment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enlightenment. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.
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