Definition

Proper noun A French writer, historian, and philosopher. He was a leading figure of the Enlightenment, a period in the 18th century emphasizing reason, science, and individual liberty. His real name was François-Marie Arouet.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The ideas of Voltaire greatly influenced the development of modern political thought.
  • We studied Voltaire's satirical novel Candide in my literature class.
  • The philosopher Voltaire was a staunch advocate for freedom of speech and separation of church and state.

Advanced Usage

• As a symbol: The name "Voltaire" is often used to represent the spirit of the Enlightenment, critical thinking, and the defense of civil liberties.
  • He was considered the Voltaire of his generation, always challenging authority with his sharp wit.

Variants and Related Words

• Voltairean (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of Voltaire or his ideas, especially his skepticism and satire.
  • The essay was written in a Voltairean style, using irony to expose hypocrisy.

Synonyms

• François-Marie Arouet (his birth name)
• Philosophe (a term for the public intellectuals of the French Enlightenment, of which Voltaire was the most famous)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Enlightenment: The intellectual movement with which Voltaire is synonymous.
• Candide: His most famous satirical novella.
• "Écrasez l'Infâme!": A phrase often associated with him, meaning "Crush the infamous thing!", generally interpreted as a call to fight superstition, intolerance, and institutional injustice.

Noun

1. French writer who was the embodiment of 18th century Enlightenment (1694-1778)