lighten
|light/en|
B2
/ˈlaɪtn̩/
make lighter or brighter
Etymology
Etymology Information
'lighten' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'līhtan,' where 'līht' meant 'light.'
Historical Evolution
'līhtan' transformed into the Middle English word 'lightnen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'lighten.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make light or bright,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to make or become lighter in weight.
She lightened her backpack by removing unnecessary items.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to make or become brighter or more illuminated.
The sun began to lighten the sky at dawn.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39