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

But in a courtroom this month, the Star reported, Ali revealed he had lied about the quick death to lessen the impact on her family.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

McLaren have managed Norris and Piastri with sensitivity and effectiveness, but the challenges do not lessen just because that has been the case so far.

Read more on BBC

Studies find that it provides a sense of purpose and community and can lessen loneliness.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Williams said he had supported the recent rate reductions because he judged the risks of weaker-than-anticipated employment outcomes had increased and the chances of faster-than-expected inflation had “lessened somewhat.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The sting of a higher health-insurance premium may lessen when payment is set on auto-pay, he said, while a bigger car loan may feel more manageable when it becomes a fixed, recurring expense.

Read more on MarketWatch

Related Words

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