Synonyms for

Illumination

Verb / ˌɪˌlu:mʌˈneɪʃʌn / Another word for illumination — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of supplying or brightening with light; the state of being illuminated.

Synonyms & similar words

miniature light illuminance clarification elucidation brightness light radiance gleam glow shine luster flash sparkle illumining lightness brilliance glitter luminosity incandescence fluorescence effulgence beauty shine

Synonyms by register

Formal

enlightenment clarification elucidation

Informal

light brightness shine

Literary

radiance effulgence luminescence

Antonyms

darkness gloom obscurity shadow blackness dimness

Common collocations

  • natural illumination
  • artificial illumination
  • ambient illumination
  • illumination level
  • illumination engineering
  • illumination system
  • illumination control

Word family

noun illumination
verb illuminate
adjective illuminating

Usage note

Primarily refers to the provision of light for visibility or understanding. Can also refer to decorative lighting.

Example sentences

  1. The illumination in the room was too bright, so we turned off some of the lights.
  2. The illumination of the candles made the room feel cozy.
  3. The fireworks show had beautiful illumination.
  4. The streetlights provided the necessary illumination for the cars to see.
  5. The museum had special illumination on the artwork.

Quotes

  • “I am not bound to please thee with my answers,” replied the prisoner; “yet I will make thee some reply. Illumination!—I know not what thou meanest.” - Sir Walter Scott
  • “The illumination of a great name sheds a glory around the narrowest circle.” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
  • “The illumination of life lies in its multifariousness.” - Alexander von Humboldt

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