enlighten

/ənˈlaɪtn̩/verb

To shine light on something; to provide it with light.

Example sentence

“A single lamp enlightened the small reading corner.”

Almost always figurative now: to enlighten is to explain or to free from ignorance. 'Enlighten me' can carry a sarcastic edge.

Related words

enlistTo sign someone up on an official list or roll; to join or recruit into a group, especially the military.enigmaticMysterious and difficult to interpret or figure out.enmityA deep feeling of hatred or hostility toward someone, like that between enemies.enigmaA person or thing that is mysterious and very hard to understand or explain.ennuiA heavy feeling of boredom and low spirits; weary dissatisfaction with life.enhanceTo make something better, stronger, or more valuable.