lighten
UK: ˈlaɪt(ə)n | US: ˈlaɪt(ə)n
vt. to make or become lighter in weight
vt. to make or become less dark or gloomy
vi. to become more cheerful or less severe
The word "lighten" combines the root "light," derived from Old English lēoht (meaning "not heavy" or "bright"), with the verb-forming suffix "-en," which originates from Old English -nian. This suffix was used to create verbs meaning "to become or cause to be" (e.g., "darken," "soften"). Over time, "lighten" evolved to encompass both literal (reducing weight or brightness) and figurative (alleviating mood or severity) meanings, reflecting the dual senses of its root.
She used bleach to lighten the color of her jeans.
The load lightened after they removed some boxes.
His mood lightened when he heard the good news.
The sky began to lighten just before dawn.
Adding windows can lighten a dark room significantly.