Definition

1. Adjective:
   • In the manner of Voltaire: Characteristic of or resembling the style, ideas, or attitudes of the French writer and philosopher Voltaire (1694-1778), particularly known for his wit, satire, criticism of intolerance and dogma, and advocacy of civil liberties and reason.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The essay's voltarean wit cleverly exposed the hypocrisy of the institution.
  • His voltarean skepticism made him question all forms of authority.
  • The play was praised for its voltarean critique of religious fanaticism.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in literary or intellectual criticism to describe a work or perspective that employs sharp irony and champions secular, rational thought against superstition and oppression, in a style reminiscent of Voltaire.
  • The journalist's voltarean approach to political commentary earned her both admirers and powerful enemies.

Variants and Related Words

• Voltairian (adjective): This is a more common variant with the same meaning as "voltarean."
  • He was known for his Voltairian satire.

Synonyms

• Satirical: Using humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize.
• Skeptical: Inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.
• Enlightened: Characterized by rational and progressive thought.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• In the spirit of Voltaire: Acting or writing with a commitment to free thought, reason, and challenging injustice, similar to Voltaire.
  • She defended his right to speak, acting in the spirit of Voltaire.

Adjective

1. in the manner of Voltaire