Synonyms for

Enlightenment

Verb / ˌeˈnlaɪtʌnmʌnt / Another word for enlightenment — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Enlightenment means the state of having knowledge or understanding, especially about spiritual or philosophical things.

Synonyms & similar words

ageofreason enlightenment nirvana unenlightenment wisdom understanding awareness comprehension insight perception knowledge illumination awakening realization education learning erudition scholarship intellect intelligence reason logic rationality philosophy

Synonyms by register

Formal

illumination understanding cognition awareness

Informal

awakening aha moment realization insight

Literary

epiphany revelation illumination

Antonyms

ignorance darkness obscurity benightedness unawareness unenlightenment

Common collocations

  • age of enlightenment
  • spiritual enlightenment
  • seek enlightenment
  • achieve enlightenment
  • path to enlightenment
  • moment of enlightenment
  • intellectual enlightenment

Word family

noun enlightenment
verb enlighten
adjective enlightened
adverb enlighteningly

Usage note

Often used in philosophical, religious, or intellectual contexts. Can refer to a state of profound understanding or the historical period known as the Age of Enlightenment.

Example sentences

  1. She sought enlightenment by meditating every morning.
  2. The Buddha is considered to have reached enlightenment.
  3. Studying philosophy can lead to enlightenment.
  4. The pursuit of enlightenment is a common theme in Eastern religions.
  5. Enlightenment can lead to a deeper sense of inner peace.

Quotes

  • Enlightenment is man's emergence from his self-imposed immaturity.
  • The only true enlightenment comes from within.
  • The path to enlightenment is not a path at all, it's actually a metaphor for the time it takes for you to allow yourself to be happy with who you already are.

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