VocabDictionary

brighten

/หˆbraษช.tษ™n/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To make or become more light, cheerful, or colorful.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe sun came out and began to brighten the gloomy room.โ€
  • โ€œA kind word from a friend can brighten your entire day.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œbrightenโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

From Middle English *brighten*, formed from *bright* (Old English *beorht*, meaning 'radiant, clear, shining') combined with the verbal suffix *-en* (denoting the creation or increase of a quality). Cognate with Old High German *beraht*.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'bright' plus the action ending '-en' to make something more bright.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œbrightenโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œbrightenโ€ in English?

In English, brighten (verb) is defined as: โ€œTo make or become more light, cheerful, or colorful.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œbrightenโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œThe sun came out and began to brighten the gloomy room.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œbrightenโ€?

Common synonyms include:illuminate,lighten,cheer,enliven

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œbrightenโ€?

From Middle English *brighten*, formed from *bright* (Old English *beorht*, meaning 'radiant, clear, shining') combined with the verbal suffix *-en* (denoting the creation or increase of a quality). Cognate with Old High German *beraht*.