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 Word Forms

• unlessened 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

With AI beginning to look as if it has reached a deployment plateau — if not a lessening of hype — high-tech promoters and investors are on the hunt for the next big thing.

From Los Angeles Times

They include lessening fire risks through high-tech and other mitigation measures; ensuring the availability of insurance and affordable energy; assisting homeowners and communities recover from disasters and ensuring wildfire losses are promptly and fully paid.

From Los Angeles Times

The party has since expressed an interest in getting the very wealthy to pay more in inheritance tax, whilst attempting to lessen the impact of the levy on those inheriting modest amounts via family homes.

From BBC

Such efforts by the army do not appear to have lessened locals' fears nor the disruption to their lives.

From BBC

The city should also dedicate resources to enforcing the temperature-threshold rules and to helping tenants afford their utility bills to lessen the burden, she added.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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