Voltaire
Syllabification: (Vol·taire)
Pronunciation: /vōlˈte(ə)r, vôl-/
Definition of Voltaire
- (1694–1778), French writer, playwright, and poet; pseudonym of François-Marie Arouet. A leading figure of the Enlightenment, he frequently came into conflict with the establishment as a result of his radical views and satirical writings. Notable works: Lettres philosophiques (1734) and Candide (1759).