epiphany

Meaning

Noun

• An illuminating realization or discovery, often resulting in a personal feeling of elation, awe, or wonder.
• A manifestation or appearance of a divine or superhuman being.

Origin

• From Middle English epiphanie, from Old French epyphanie, from Late Latin epiphania, from Ancient Greek ἐπιφάνεια ("manifestation, striking appearance"), from ἐπιφαίνω, from ἐπί + φαίνω. English Epiphany (of Christ) since the 14th century, generic use since the 17th century.