lighten
word
Definition
To make something lighter in color, weight, or mood. It can also mean to reduce something unpleasant, such as a burden, pain, or serious atmosphere.
Usage & Nuances
Common with color and mood: 'lighten your hair', 'lighten the mood'. Also used for reducing pressure or responsibility: 'lighten the load'. For weather, 'the sky/light/rain lightened' can mean it became brighter or less heavy. Do not confuse with 'enlighten', which means 'inform' or 'give understanding'.
Example Sentences
A joke helped lighten the mood at dinner.
basic
If we split the project into smaller tasks, it might lighten the workload for everyone.
natural
This shampoo can lighten your hair a little.
basic
We need to lighten this box before we carry it.
basic
I was trying to lighten the conversation, not offend anyone.
natural
The rain finally lightened up, so we went for a walk.
natural