illuminate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪˈluː.mɪ.neɪt/
KK: /ɪˈluː.mɪ.neɪt/
adjective
Definition
Made bright or filled with light; also refers to being intellectually or spiritually enlightened.
Example
The artist used bright colors to illuminate the canvas.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more illuminated
Superlative: most illuminated
Conversation
I love how this room feels so illuminate with all the natural light coming in.
Yeah, it really makes a difference to the mood here.
It feels so much more illuminate than my dark apartment.
Definitely! Light can really change the vibe of a space.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bright
luminous
radiant
Antonyms
dark
dim
obscure
intransitive verb
Definition
To become bright or lighted, often as a result of a source of light.
Example
The stars illuminate the night sky beautifully.
Tense Forms
Past: illuminated
Past Participle: illuminated
Conversation
Did you see how the stars illuminate the night sky?
Yeah, it's so beautiful and calming.
I love how they illuminate everything around us.
noun
Definition
A person who has a deep understanding or insight, often seen as wise or knowledgeable.
Example
The illuminate shared their wisdom with the community, inspiring others to seek knowledge.
Conversation
I met someone yesterday who claims to be an illuminate in philosophy.
Really? That sounds intriguing! What did they say?
They talked about seeing the world in a completely different way, almost like they were enlightened.
transitive verb
Definition
To make something brighter or clearer, often by adding light or decoration, or to help someone understand something better.
Example
The teacher used examples to illuminate the complex topic for her students.
Tense Forms
Past: illuminated
Past Participle: illuminated
Conversation
I love how they illuminate the park with those colorful lights during the festival.
Yeah, it makes everything look so magical at night!
I agree! It's like walking through a fairy tale when they illuminate the trees.
Root Explanation
Illuminate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "luminare" (meaning to light up or make bright). The word "illuminate" means to light up or make something bright by bringing light into it.
Memory Tip
Think of bringing light 'into' ('in-') something to 'brighten' it ('luminare'). This helps you remember that illuminate means to light up.
Visually Confused Words
reilluminate
luminate
unilluminated
preilluminate
disilluminate
aluminate
transilluminate
silicoaluminate