Illuminate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Illuminate means to light up or brighten something, either literally (like a lamp lighting a room) or figuratively (like clarifying an idea). It can also refer to making something clearer or more understandable.
Definition:
To light up or clarify something, making it brighter or easier to understand.
Synonyms:
brighten, clarify, enlighten, elucidate
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
obscure, darken
Common Collocations:
illuminate a room, illuminate the text, illuminate the path
Derivatives:
illumination, illuminator
Usage Tips:
Use "illuminate" for both literal lighting and figurative clarification, like ideas or concepts.
Common Phrases:
shed light on, cast light upon, bring to light
Etymology:
From Latin *illuminare*, meaning "to light up" or "adorn."
Examples:
- 1. The lamp will illuminate the entire room beautifully.
- 2. Her explanation helped illuminate the complex topic for everyone.
- 3. The fireworks illuminated the night sky with vibrant colors.
- 4. Ancient manuscripts were often illuminated with intricate designs.