lessen
Americanverb (used without object)
verb (used with object)
-
to make less; reduce.
-
Archaic. to represent as less; depreciate; disparage.
verb
-
to make or become less
-
(tr) to make little of
Other Word Forms
- unlessened adjective
Etymology
Origin of lessen
First recorded in 1300–50; late Middle English lessenen, lasnen; equivalent to less + -en 1
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
And some opponents of the term “functional cure” say it may lessen the urgency for achieving the ultimate goal: a complete cure.
From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026
Mia, a year 11 pupil, said it would "help lessen the stress and stop the burden of paying £300 for a dress".
From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026
This has enabled Pyongyang to lessen dependence on its main long-term backer, China.
From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026
Using the first sale rule is one of several steps companies can take to lessen the tariff hit.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 2026
He was determined to lessen the impact of my statement.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
