Epiphany

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ɪˈpɪf.É™.ni/, /ɛˈpɪf.É™.ni/
• US IPA: /ɪˈpɪf.É™.ni/, /ɨˈpɪf.É™.ni/

Origin

From Old French epyphanie, from Late Latin epiphania, from Ancient Greek ἐπιφάνεια (epiphaneia, "manifestation, striking appearance"), from ἐπιφαίνω (epiphainō, "I appear, display"), from ἐπί (epi, "upon") + φαίνω (phainō, "I shine, appear"). English Epiphany (of Christ) since the 14th century, generic use since the 17th century.

Full definition of epiphany

Noun

1. A manifestation or appearance of a divine or superhuman being.
2. An illuminating realization or discovery, often resulting in a personal feeling of elation, awe, or wonder.
3. (Christianity) Season or time of the Christian church year from the Epiphany feast day to Mardi Gras (Shrove Tuesday), the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent (See Epiphany).

Synonyms

• (illuminating realization or discovery) aha moment, enlightenment, nirvana, satori