redden

American  

[red-n] / ˈrɛd n /

verb (used with object)

1. to make or cause to become red.

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verb (used without object)

1. to become red.

2. to blush; flush.

redden British  

/ ˈrɛdən /

verb

1. to make or become red

2. (intr) to flush with embarrassment, anger, etc; blush

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Other Word Forms

• outredden
  verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of redden

First recorded in 1605–15; red ¹ + -en ¹

Explanation

When something reddens, its color changes so that it looks red. In autumn, the leaves on some trees redden before they fall to the ground. If the sky reddens at dusk, you might remember the rhyme "red sky at night, sailor's delight." Pale people redden too, when they blush or flush with embarrassment. A child coloring a picture with crayons might redden the sky and shade the trees blue and purple. The Old English root, meaning "become red," is readian.

Example Sentences

From its color, Ellis and his colleagues knew at least some of its stars were mature, because they tend to redden with age.

From Science Magazine • Jun. 30, 2022

He stops talking, his eyes redden, he takes a deep breath, and reaches for his cup of tea.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2019

Bliss “is the exact reason women and men don’t report these crimes,” Feden said, as Bliss’ face appeared to redden.

From Reuters • Apr. 26, 2018

His eyes began to redden with a mix of nostalgia and anger.

From Washington Post • Jul. 29, 2016

I feel myself redden even more but fortunately it’s too dark to see.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness