Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
verb (used with object)
- to give intellectual or spiritual light to; instruct; impart knowledge to: We hope the results of our research will enlighten our colleagues.
- Archaic. to shed light upon.
verb (tr)
- to give information or understanding to; instruct; edify
- to free from ignorance, prejudice, or superstition
- to give spiritual or religious revelation to
- poetic to shed light on
late 14c., “to remove the dimness or blindness (usually figurative) from one’s eyes or heart;” see en- (1) + lighten. Old English had inlihtan. Related: Enlightened; enlightening.