Definition of illuminativenext
as in interpretive
serving to explain illuminative descriptions of the sights to be seen from the observatory gave us a much better idea of what we were looking at

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of illuminative Hybrid lanterns that meet the aforementioned criteria are indeed out there, waiting to illuminate your next campsite, glamping trip, picnic, late-night reading session, or simply to add a little illuminative flare to that embarrassingly barren bookshelf in time for the next Zoom meeting. J.d. Simkins, Sunset Magazine, 17 Feb. 2022 Along the way, Robbins spices his story through illuminative moments and mini-biographies. OregonLive.com, 14 Oct. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illuminative
Adjective
  • Before any interpretive layer, the basic sonic patterns that people perceive depends on cultural experience.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • And intriguing earthen mounds, built by prehistoric Native Americans more than 1,000 years ago, dot Greenwood Village interpretive site.
    Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Emmie’s condition is an interpretative riddle for both her parents and the reader.
    Giles Harvey, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Will the academy troll Chalamet (and the rest of us) with an interpretative dance performance?
    Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Ephemera is so often illustrative of the inner life of a character, a direct, beating correlative of the contents of their hearts.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • All figures from these sources throughout this article should be treated as illustrative and educational, not as forecasts or recommendations.
    Joel Shulman, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Illuminative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illuminative. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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