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 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
  • The central legal debate in the last stretch leading up to Mangione’s trial has revolved around who will get to participate in this perhaps futile—though understandable—interpretive exercise.
    Dan Adler, Vanity Fair, 11 Aug. 2026
  • There’s no charge to visit Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, home to an interpretive center and walking trails.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The nonprofit is dedicated to promoting forest conservation efforts through exhibits, with interpretative trails around the site that venture through lush forest canopies.
    Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 27 June 2026
  • When subtle interpretative differences compound over months and miles, your original vision becomes unrecognizable on the front lines.
    Peter Ross, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • One illustrative example of Missouri’s disconnect between policy and politicians came from rural Taney County, a Republican stronghold along the state’s southern border with Arkansas that includes Branson.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Marcus Rashford’s acquisition in January 2025 served as an illustrative example.
    Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 22 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Illuminative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illuminative. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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