Enlightenment
/ɪnˈlaɪtənmənt/noun
The state of gaining knowledge, insight, or spiritual awakening.
Did you know?The term 'Enlightenment' is often associated with the Age of Reason, yet its roots suggest a deeper journey from darkness into knowledge, akin to mystical awakening.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*lewk-
“to shine or bring light.”
Latin
Latin
illuminare
“to light up, to make clear.”
Old French
Old French
enluminier
“to illuminate, to enlighten.”
Middle English
Middle English
enlighten
“to make light, to give spiritual insight.”
18th Century
English
Enlightenment
“a period characterized by reason, science, and intellectual exchange.”
Explore more surprising origins