brighten
verb (used with or without object)
to become or make bright or brighter.
brightened
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past participleof brighten.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof brighten.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
brightenverb (used with or without object)to become or make bright or brighter.
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.
“Often gliding by on her skateboard, with a smile that brightened her gorgeous blue eyes.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 24, 2026
Her work focused on periods when the galaxy's X-ray output brightened in flares and on how the X-ray signal evolved in the hours afterward.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 19, 2026
Confidence among German investors brightened unexpectedly this month on hopes for a prompt end to the Iran war, though it still remains deep in negative territory as firms navigate higher energy prices.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 12, 2026
The outlook for managed-care players brightened significantly at the start of April.
From Barron's ● Apr. 29, 2026
As he heard the voice his face brightened, through its mutilation, and he said:—
From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker
