Lessen

/ˈlɛs.ən/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to make or become less in amount, degree, or intensity

The medication is designed to lessen the pain associated with the condition.

to reduce the severity or impact of something

They took steps to lessen the damage caused by the storm.

to diminish in degree or extent

As time passed, her fear began to lessen.

to decrease in size, amount, or force

The number of participants in the event has begun to lessen.

to make something smaller or less significant

The company hopes to lessen its environmental impact through new policies.

Middle English, from lesse, lesser, from Old English læs, of less

lessen the blow:

to make something unpleasant less severe

lessen the burden:

to reduce a difficulty or obligation

lessen the impact:

to reduce the effect of something

tone it down

You need to lessen your criticism a little.

cool it

Just lessen your complaints and enjoy the trip.