The meaning of LIGHTEN is to make light or clear : illuminate. How to use lighten in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Lighten.

lighten verb (MAKE LESS HEAVY) lighten someone's burden, load, etc. to make a difficult situation or responsibility easier:

If you lighten something, you make it less heavy. It is a good idea to blend it in a food processor as this lightens the mixture. [VERB noun] He pulled the lightened sled with all his strength. [VERB-ed]

Definition of lighten verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Nov 30, 2025 · lighten (third-person singular simple present lightens, present participle lightening, simple past and past participle lightened) (transitive) To alleviate; to reduce the burden of. quotations …

to (cause to) become cheery or glad: [~ + object] Such news lightens my heart. [no object] His heart lightened at the thought. lighten up, to (cause to) become less serious or earnest: [no object] needs …

LIGHTEN definition: to become lighter or less dark; brighten. See examples of lighten used in a sentence.

1. to make lighter in weight. 2. to lessen the load of or upon. 3. to make less burdensome or oppressive; mitigate: to lighten taxes. 4. to cheer or gladden: Such news lightens my heart.

LIGHTEN definition: 1. If a serious situation lightens, it becomes less serious, and if something or someone lightens…. Learn more.

Master the word "LIGHTEN" in English: definitions, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one complete resource.