lessen

[ˈlɛs(ə)n]

lessen Definition

• 1. make or become less; diminish
• 2. to make something smaller in amount or degree

Using lessen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lessen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The medication will lessen the pain.

• Example

  I hope this will lessen your anxiety.

• Example

  The noise outside gradually lessened as the night went on.

lessen Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for lessen

• reduce
• decrease
• diminish
• lower
• abate

Antonyms for lessen

• increase
• augment
• boost

Phrases with lessen

• lessen the blow

  to make a difficult situation less unpleasant or painful

  Example

  He tried to lessen the blow by telling her gently.

• lessen the load/burden

  to reduce the amount of work or responsibility that someone has

  Example

  I'll help you with your work to lessen the load.

• lessen the impact/effect

  to reduce the force or influence of something

  Example

  We need to take action to lessen the impact of climate change.

Origins of lessen

from Old English 'lǣsian', meaning 'to make less'

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Summary: lessen in Brief

'Lessen' [ˈlɛs(ə)n] means to make something smaller in amount or degree. It can be used to describe the reduction of pain, anxiety, noise, and other things. The phrase 'lessen the blow' is used to make a difficult situation less unpleasant or painful. 'Lessen the load/burden' means to reduce the amount of work or responsibility that someone has. 'Lessen the impact/effect' means to reduce the force or influence of something.