LIGHTEN

I. verb (~ed; ~ing) Etymology: Middle English ~en, from light Date: 14th century transitive verb to make light or clear ; illuminate , en~ , to make (as a color) lighter, intransitive verb 1. to shine brightly, to grow lighter ; brighten , to give out flashes of lightning, ~er noun II. verb (~ed; ~ing) Date: 14th century transitive verb 1. to relieve of a burden in whole or in part , to reduce in weight or quantity ; lessen , to make less wearisome ; alleviate , cheer , gladden , intransitive verb to become lighter or less burdensome, to become more cheerful, see: relieve ~er noun