Also means
to light up
Usage Note
illuminer can be literal (lights illuminating a building) or figurative (an idea illuminating a question). The reflexive s'illuminer means 'to light up', often describing a face or sky brightening suddenly. The noun illumination (f) shares the same root and is used for festive lighting displays.
Examples
"Les lampions illuminent la rue."
Natural Translation
The lanterns illuminate the street.
Related Words
Explore French by topic