Lighten

/ˈlaɪtən/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to make or become less heavy.

He decided to lighten his load by packing only the essentials for the trip.

to make less serious or severe; to alleviate or ease.

She used humor to lighten the mood after the tense meeting.

to brighten or make lighter in color.

She used a lighter shade of paint to lighten the dark room.

to relieve someone of a burden or worry.

Talking to a friend can often lighten your worries and fears.

Middle English lighten, from Old English līhtian 'to make light'.

lighten up:

To take things less seriously; to relax.

lighten the load:

To reduce the burden or responsibility.

lighten one's heart:

To make someone feel happier.

To make a situation more fun or enjoyable.

Let's lighten the mood with some music!

To ease up on someone, often used in a joking manner.

Come on, man, lighten up! It's just a game.