brighten JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/ˈbɹaɪtən/ · bright·en
verb
  1. To make something brighter in color or light. We brightened the room with a fresh coat of paint.
  2. To add luster, distinction, or splendor to something. The new award brightened her reputation in the scientific community.
  3. To make a situation, mood, or prospect more cheerful or pleasant. Having Mark around the office really brightens things up.
Did you know? The verb *brighten* was famously used by Shakespeare in *The Tempest* (“...the brightening of the sun”) to convey both literal light and hopeful renewal.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 14, 2026