lessen

[ les-uhn ]

verb (used without object)

1. to become less.

verb (used with object)

1. to make less; reduce.
2. Archaic. to represent as less; depreciate; disparage.

lessen

/ ˈlɛsən /

verb

1. to make or become less
2. tr to make little of

Other Words From

• un·lessened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lessen¹

First recorded in 1300–50; late Middle English lessenen, lasnen; equivalent to less + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Habituation -- adaptation's less-glamorous sibling -- involves the lessening response to a stimulus after repeated exposure.

From Science Daily

Using Extension services to connect the women to lessen their feelings of isolation could also improve quality of life among this population.

From Science Daily

She said she hoped bringing stories which had been secret for so long onto a public stage would help to lessen stigma.

From BBC

Fierce Santa Ana winds were expected to ease somewhat Friday, lessening the chance of the fire spreading farther.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Roulstone expects that at some point options for redeployment will lessen and there will job losses.

From BBC

Related Words

• abate
• curtail
• decrease
• dilute
• diminish
• dwindle
• ease
• erode
• impair
• lighten
• minimize
• mitigate
• narrow
• shrink
• slacken
• taper off
• weaken