Encyclopédie: A comprehensive reference work edited by Diderot and d'Alembert, containing articles on various subjects including science, arts, politics, etc.
Secularism: The separation of religion from governmental affairs or public institutions—a concept that influenced Diderot's thinking.
Salons: Intellectual gatherings held by wealthy women in 18th-century France where discussions about literature, philosophy, and art took place—Diderot often attended these salons.