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

Yes, its certainly something to brighten up the old Monday morning routine.

From The Daily Beast

To brighten your winter, check out these amazing rare early color photographs of Paris about 1900.

From The Daily Beast

As the overall economic picture in the United States continues to brighten, the job market remains a contentious issue.

From The Daily Beast

I bet if someone put that on my desk, it would instantly brighten my mood.

From The Daily Beast

Eyelid lifts, which brighten the face and require little downtime, are his most popular surgeries.

From The Daily Beast

She thanked them for their gifts but languidly, and did not visibly brighten when told that her husband was better.

From Project Gutenberg

Constance clasps her hands delightedly and begins to brighten with hope.

From Project Gutenberg

Now all the anxiety is over, you will brighten like this house.'

From Project Gutenberg

Salt, ammonia and turpentine brighten the colours of a carpet, and the latter two are objectionable to moths.

From Project Gutenberg

They are like a small lassie I know, who helps to brighten all the dark places in my life.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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