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

By adding low-income units to these areas, it would lessen a pattern of racial and income segregation that a city-funded report determined single-family zoning plays a key part in maintaining.

From Los Angeles Times

The department said it also took steps to lessen displacement of low-income Angelenos by offering greater incentives in high-opportunity communities, especially along major streets more likely to have commercial tenants.

From Los Angeles Times

In the meantime, though, the challenge is getting through that “hump” of people waiting to be assessed – with the belief that, over time, the increase in diagnoses should lessen.

From BBC

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

From BBC

It doesn’t appear that this election will ease or lessen the threat of political violence.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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