lightening

American  

[lahyt-n-ing] / ˈlaɪt n ɪŋ /

noun

Medicine/Medical.

1. the descent of the uterus into the pelvic cavity, occurring toward the end of pregnancy, changing the contour of the abdomen and facilitating breathing by lessening pressure under the diaphragm.

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lightening British  

/ ˈlaɪtənɪŋ /

noun

1. obstetrics the sensation, experienced by many women late in pregnancy when the head of the fetus enters the pelvis, of a reduction in pressure on the diaphragm, making it easier to breathe

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Etymology

Origin of lightening

First recorded in 1520–30; lighten ² + -ing ¹

Compare meaning

How does lightening compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• lightning vs. lightening

Example Sentences

“If you think you’ve weathered the storm, we’re probably not through it all. If you can’t handle it, consider lightening up your positions,” he added.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 5, 2026

Speaking backstage, they told reporters that they were unsure how they would recapture that lightening in a bottle for the sequel they have planned with Netflix.

From BBC • Jan. 12, 2026

Gupta, Smyth and Armlovich have all publicly opposed a rent freeze, unless some other action is taken to ease landlord expenses like lightening property taxes or insurance costs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

He told family members that Diet Coke was responsible for his longevity, lightening the mood.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 27, 2025

And the bus just rolls and rolls into the lightening sky.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz

Related Words

• alleviation
• assistance
• comfort
• happiness
• help
• maintenance
• reprieve
• respite
• satisfaction
• support