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

Other Word Forms

• rebrighten verb
• unbrightened adjective
• brightener noun

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

He brightened at once, slipped the round loaf into his pocket, and made a beeline for the kitchen.

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With a skeptical snort, Lady Constance squeezed her eyes shut, whereupon she brightened immediately.

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A shadow flitted across her face; then she brightened.

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Those students’ mood momentarily brightened when they were given tie-dye T-shirts as a tribute to the late Bill Walton, who was honored in a pregame video.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A pinch of sea salt in a sweet bowl doesn’t just make it taste “better”—it deepens everything, sharpens the butter, brightens the fruit, makes the brown sugar taste like caramel instead of syrup.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

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