illuminate /ɪˈluːmɪneɪt/ CET6 TEM4 ( illuminating, illuminated, illuminates )

• 1. 

  V-T To illuminate something means to shine light on it and to make it brighter and more visible. 照亮 [正式]

  例：

  No streetlights illuminated the street.

  一盏照亮街道的路灯也没有。

• 2. 

  V-T If you illuminate something that is unclear or difficult to understand, you make it clearer by explaining it carefully or giving information about it. 阐明 [正式]

  例：

  Instead of formulas and charts, the two instructors use games and drawings to illuminate their subject.

  这两位教师用游戏和图画而不是公式和图表来阐明他们的题旨。

• 3. 

  illuminating ADJ 富有启发性的

  例：

  It would be illuminating to hear the views of the club vice-chairman.

  听听俱乐部副主席的观点或许会有启发。