lighten

Definition

To make brighter or clearer; to illuminate.

Etymology

From Middle English lightnen, equivalent to light + -en.

Example Sentences

• "to lighten an apartment with lamps or gas; to lighten the streets"
• "A Key of fire ran all along the shore, And lighten’d all the river with the blaze:"
• "Enter the Conjurer; it lightens and thunders […]"