illuminating

adjective

il·​lu·​mi·​nat·​ing i-ˈlü-mə-ˌnā-tiŋ How to pronounce illuminating (audio)
Synonyms of illuminatingnext
: providing insight, clarity, or understanding : highly informative
an illuminating remark/discussion
… much of the information is quite illuminatingGlenn Kenny
illuminatingly adverb

Examples of illuminating in a Sentence

the show is an illuminating tutorial on ways to prepare popular dishes using wholesome ingredients
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
During a 45-minute interview with the Orlando Sentinel, the Gators’ master motivator and raconteur engaged in an illuminating and riveting conversation. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2026 Gates has assembled a stimulating, illuminating, maddening, saddening, but often inspiring, story of their relations with the world and one another. Robert Lloyd, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2026 Gates has assembled a stimulating, illuminating, maddening, saddening, but often inspiring, story of their relations with the world and one another. Robert Lloyd, Houston Chronicle, 4 Feb. 2026 Gates has assembled a stimulating, illuminating, maddening, saddening, but often inspiring, story of their relations with the world and one another. Television Critic, Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for illuminating

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of illuminate entry 1

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of illuminating was in 1644

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Cite this Entry

“Illuminating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/illuminating. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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