LIGHTENS Synonyms: 66 Similar and Opposite Words

lightens 1 of 2

verb (1)

present tense third-person singular of lighten

as in brightens

to become glad or hopeful the patient lightened when he heard the disease responds well to treatment

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lightens

2 of 2

verb (2)

present tense third-person singular of lighten

as in illumines

to supply with light the room was gradually lightened by the rising sun

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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 lightens

Verb

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 White, meanwhile, instantly lightens an outfit to add a luminous, almost ethereal touch. — Emma Bocchi, Glamour, 21 Aug. 2026 That angled void lightens the mass visually, introducing shadow and depth, transforming the island from a utilitarian object into an architectural centerpiece. — Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Robb Report, 16 Aug. 2026 There’s a Moon alert, which lightens the feelings of all your social exchanges and encourages a carefree nonchalance to everything. — Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 10 Aug. 2026 This short cut gives lots of movement and lightens the load of thick, heavy hair. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 17 July 2026 This variety has vibrant blue-green leaves with a wide golden-yellow margin that lightens to creamy white during summer. — Lauren David, Martha Stewart, 6 July 2026 Like a true pal, a big pot of it in my refrigerator lightens my load, providing a nourishing meal my whole family loves at a moment’s notice. — Ellie Krieger, Washington Post, 1 July 2026 Your adaptable nature turns small moments into quick bridges, while gentle humor lightens heavier topics so plans move forward together. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 11 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for lightens

Verb

Meanwhile, glycerin, betaine, sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, and beta-glucan flood the area with hydration, while niacinamide brightens the look of dullness and uneven tone.

— Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 20 Aug. 2026
Its dewy coverage gives cheeks a bright, doll-like, natural flush that highlights the cheekbones and brightens complexions.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of brightens

Verb

Koopala’s rechargeable, stick-on task light illuminates tricky spots around the home that could use extra light without the hassle of cords or hardwiring.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026
The remainder of the moon will take on a reddish-brown hue because sunlight bends around Earth and illuminates the lunar surface indirectly.

— Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of illuminates

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lightening

lightens

lighter

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“Lightens.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lightens. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of lightens

verb (1)

verb (2)

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