Definition of "Illuminatus"

A member of any of various societies, sects or other people claiming religious or intellectual enlightenment.

1. A member of the early church who had received baptism and been given a lighted taper as a symbol of the spiritual illumination they had received.  examples

2. A member of a Spanish sect of the sixteenth century, who believed that, by means of prayer, they had attained so perfect a state as to have no need of ordinances, sacraments, good works, etc.; the Alumbrados or Perfectibilists.  examples

3. A member of certain associations in Europe who combined to promote social reform in pursuit of perfection; especially one originated in 1776 by Adam Weishaupt.  examples

4. A member of an obscure sect of French familists.  examples

5. A member of the Hesychasts, Mystics, and Quietists.  examples

6. A member of the Rosicrucians.  examples

A member of an alleged global, elite, secret society which has as its ultimate objective the subjugation of humanity (world domination or New World Order).  examples