lessen
verb (used without object)
to become less.
lessening
-
present participleof lessen.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Anderson cited Saavedra’s “prompt and extensive cooperation” as a factor in lessening the sentence.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 28, 2026
When popular teams play on Sunday afternoon, they are more likely to land in the late-afternoon window, where games often receive broad national distribution, lessening the need for the service.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 13, 2026
Meanwhile wages and benefits have typically been outpacing inflation this year, lessening the squeeze for many - so far.
From BBC ● Aug. 19, 2026
Shares of banks, airlines, retailers and other industries that had struggled since February have started breaking higher, lessening the market’s dependence on hot tech stocks and catching the attention of chart-watching technical strategists.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 17, 2026
He felt a slight lessening of nervous tension and swallowed.
From "Native Son" by Richard Wright
