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

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

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

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

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.

Jan 20, 2026 · lighten (third-person singular simple present lightens, present participle lightening, simple past and past participle lightened) (transitive) To make brighter or clearer; to illuminate.

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]