Epiphany
/ɪˈpɪfəni/
Usage Pattern
Quick Memory Tip
Think of a light bulb turning on in your head, illuminating something you suddenly understand.
Definitions
2 meaningsEpiphany
(noun)/ɪˈpɪfəni/
A sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something.
A moment of sudden realization or insight.
She had an epiphany while meditating and realized the need for change in her life.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to solve a puzzle, and suddenly, *boom!* the pieces click into place. That 'aha!' moment when you get it is an epiphany. It's like when you suddenly understand why your dog barks at the mailman (because he's protecting you!).
👶 For kids: It's like when you suddenly understand something really important, like when you finally learn how to ride your bike!
More Examples
The artist's epiphany came while observing nature, inspiring a new series of paintings.
Reading the book was an epiphany for him, changing his perspective on the world.
After years of research, the scientist experienced an epiphany about the structure of the atom.
How It's Used
"The writer experienced an epiphany while watching the sunset, realizing the theme of his novel."
"Therapy can often lead to an epiphany about the root of one's emotional issues."
"After years of research, the scientist had an epiphany about the missing link."
Epiphany
(noun)/ɪˈpɪfəni/
A Christian festival commemorating the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus.
A Christian feast celebrating the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles.
Epiphany is celebrated by many Christians on January 6th.
💡 Simply: For some people, Epiphany is a special day in the Christian calendar. It's like Jesus is revealed to everyone.
👶 For kids: A special day when Christians remember the wise men who visited baby Jesus.
More Examples
The tradition of the Epiphany involves celebrating the visit of the Magi to Jesus.
Many cultures celebrate Epiphany with specific customs and traditions.
On the Feast of the Epiphany, the church celebrates the revelation of Christ to the world.
How It's Used
"The Christian holiday of Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th."
From Late Latin *epiphania*, from Greek *epiphaneia* meaning 'manifestation, appearance,' from *epiphainein* 'to manifest.' Originally referred to a Christian religious festival.
The term 'epiphany' has been used since ancient times, referring to a divine manifestation. Its usage evolved within Christianity to refer to the revelation of Jesus Christ to the gentiles.
Word Origin
"manifestation, appearance"