BRIGHTEN Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

brighten

verb

ˈbrī-tᵊn

Definition of brighten

as in to lighten

to become glad or hopeful the glum soccer player started to brighten upon being told that his injury would not jeopardize his career

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of brighten Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid delivers hydration and keeps skin smooth and glowing, plus there’s niacinamide and licorice extract to brighten and even the complexion. — Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 The second helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles, a new attribute to the serum whose primary function has been to brighten and hydrate the skin. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 17 Aug. 2026 Add up to 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture to brighten the flavor of the filling. — Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2026 Attractive octagonal skylights brighten the stairway up to the living quarters. — David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for brighten

Recent Examples of Synonyms for brighten

Verb

The Senate proposal also includes measures to try and lighten the loads on Californians’ utility bills, though again, details remain vague.

— Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026
Diamond Crystal or Morton kosher salt and stir just until mixture puffs and slightly lightens in color.

— Ellary Collins, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of lighten

Verb

For a bold and vibrant fall hair transformation, consider colors with warm tones that add depth and glow to your look.

— Alyssa Rotunno, InStyle, 27 Aug. 2026
On Broadway, these glow like amber beacons, alas offering a respite from the darkness that best serves what Holloway and Barrett are trying to do.

— Chris Jones, New York Daily News, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of glow

Verb

Deep sleepers will appreciate the gradual wake-up call from a large catalog of alarm sounds, and an alarm volume that reaches decibels capable of reviving a bear from its hibernation.

— Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 26 Aug. 2026
Following interest from Drake, Netflix vowed to revive the series in 2017 with original stars Ashley Walters and Kane Robinson reprising their roles as Dushane and Sully.

— Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of revive

Browse Nearby Words

bright

brighten

brightened

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“Brighten.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brighten. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of brighten

verb

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