lighten
v.v. to make something less heavy or less dark. You can also use it to describe making a mood or situation feel more relaxed and less serious.
v. to reduce the weight or intensity of something; to make a situation less serious or oppressive.
You should lighten your suitcase before the flight.
The manager told a joke at the start of the meeting to lighten the atmosphere.
The architect used large glass panels to lighten the interior of the building, transforming a previously gloomy space into a bright and welcoming environment.
From Middle English lightnen, equivalent to light + -en.
From light + -en.
Often used with 'up' to describe improving a mood or making a situation less formal.
He tried to light the mood.He tried to lighten the mood.Learners often confuse the verb 'light' (to ignite) with 'lighten' (to make less heavy or serious).