brighten

[ brahyt-n ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to become or make bright or brighter.

   Synonyms: hearten, lift, gladden, cheer, lighten

   Antonyms: sadden, deject, darken

brighten

/ ˈbraɪtən /

verb

1. to make or become bright or brighter
2. to make or become cheerful

Derived Forms

• ˈbrightener, noun

Other Words From

• re·brighten verb
• un·brightened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of brighten¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, brighten is from the Middle English word brightnen. See bright, -en ¹

Example Sentences

Ray also adds that her dogs are "a ray of light" and help to brighten up those "dark days."

From Salon

I put on “Por Una Mujer Casada” by Banda El Recodo to brighten up the mood and stepped outside to see if law enforcement had blocked off Atlantic yet.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Wangchuk studied mechanical engineering after a relative noticed his experiments with concave mirrors to brighten dark buildings and cook food.

From BBC

“She would brighten up any room and was known for her genuine care and compassion for those around her. She always brought a sense of calm, in the good times and bad, whether it was through a joke, a game of cribbage, or a giant bear hug for a Sailor in need of one.”

From Los Angeles Times

Beth has a heart condition and Payne had been an ambassador of the children's charity Rays of Sunshine, which aims to brighten the lives of seriously ill children by granting them wishes.

From BBC

Related Words

• clear up
• enliven
• illuminate
• light up
• lighten