sweeten
UK: ˈswiːtən | US: ˈswiːtən
vt. to make sweet in taste
vt. to make more pleasant or agreeable
vi. to become sweet
The word "sweeten" combines "sweet," derived from Old English "swēte" (pleasing to the senses, especially taste), with the verb-forming suffix "-en," which means "to make or become." This suffix, of Germanic origin, is used to convert adjectives into verbs (e.g., "darken," "soften"). The logical progression reflects transforming something into a sweeter state, either literally (e.g., adding sugar) or figuratively (e.g., making a deal more appealing).
She added honey to sweeten the tea.
The company sweetened the offer with extra benefits.
Fruits sweeten as they ripen.
He tried to sweeten the conversation with compliments.
The dessert was sweetened with natural maple syrup.