lighten (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈlaɪtn/

Definition

To make something less serious, sad, or worrying.

Examples

• His cheerful attitude always manages to lighten the atmosphere in the office.

• We tried to lighten the mood by singing songs during the long journey.

• A good laugh can significantly lighten your worries.

How to Use lighten

lighten up (phrasal verb)

To become less serious, worried, or angry. — "He needs to lighten up and enjoy himself more."

lighten the mood (collocation)

To make a situation or atmosphere less tense or unhappy. — "Her jokes were intended to lighten the mood after the argument."

lighten the load (collocation)

To reduce the amount of work or responsibility someone has. — "The new software should lighten the load for the accounting department."

Synonyms of lighten

Words with a similar meaning to lighten:

• ease
• relieve
• alleviate
• mitigate

Antonyms of lighten

Words with the opposite meaning to lighten:

• darken
• aggravate

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