Illuminate (Verb)
Meaning 1
Add embellishments and paintings to (medieval manuscripts).
Classification
Verbs of sewing, baking, painting, performing.
Examples
- The artists carefully illuminated the pages of the medieval manuscript with intricate gold leaf designs and delicate floral patterns.
 - Skilled monks spent years pouring over the text to illuminate each page with vivid scenes of people and nature.
 - The decorative borders that illuminated the manuscript's pages added an extra layer of beauty to the already exquisite text.
 - Medieval artists used a variety of techniques to illuminate the pages of hand-written manuscripts with highly detailed images.
 - The team of artists was tasked with not only copying the text but also illuminating the pages of the historic manuscript with elaborate illustrations.
 
Hypernyms
Hyponyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Make free from confusion or ambiguity; make clear; "Could you clarify these remarks?"; "Clear up the question of who is at fault".
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- Her explanation helped to illuminate the confusing concept, making it easier for everyone to understand.
 - The detective's investigation was able to illuminate the motives behind the crime, leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.
 - The professor's lecture aimed to illuminate the complex issues surrounding climate change and its effects on the environment.
 - The politician's statement was intended to illuminate her position on the issue, but it only led to more confusion and controversy.
 - The instructions were rewritten to illuminate the confusing sections, allowing users to assemble the product with ease.
 
Synonyms
- Crystalise
 - Clear Up
 - Crystallise
 - Crystalize
 - Elucidate
 - Sort Out
 - Straighten Out
 - Clear
 - Shed Light On
 - Crystallize
 - Enlighten
 
Hypernyms
Related Words
Meaning 3
Make lighter or brighter; "This lamp lightens the room a bit".
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- Turning on the chandelier helps illuminate the grand staircase in the old mansion.
 - The morning sunlight pouring in through the window illuminates the tranquil atmosphere of the room.
 - A string of fairy lights hung around the patio to illuminate the outdoor seating area for the party.
 - The soft glow from the candles on the table illuminates the happy couple's faces during the romantic dinner.
 - After dark, the streetlights illuminate the empty roads and alleys of the sleepy town.