'alighten' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'alighten,' where 'a-' meant 'on' and 'lighten' meant 'to descend.'

'alighten' changed from the Middle English word 'alighten' and has largely retained its form in modern English.

Initially, it meant 'to descend or disembark,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.