Meaning of the word illuminate in English

What does illuminate mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

illuminate

US /ɪˈluː.mə.neɪt/

UK /ɪˈluː.mə.neɪt/

light up; make brighter with light

Example:

•

The full moon illuminated the path through the forest.

•

Christmas lights illuminate the city streets during the holidays.

Synonym:

light up brighten irradiate light

Synonym:

darken obscure

help to clarify or explain (a subject or matter)

Example:

•

The new research findings helped to illuminate the complex issue.

•

His lecture managed to illuminate the historical context of the events.

Synonym:

clarify explain elucidate shed light on

Synonym:

confuse obscure

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