BRIGHTEN Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

brighten

verb

ˈbrī-tᵊn

Definition of brighten

as in to lighten

to become glad or hopeful the glum soccer player started to brighten upon being told that his injury would not jeopardize his career

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of brighten The fragrance-free formula contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are the best lightweight, skin-brightening humectants for hydrating parched skin. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 28 Aug. 2026 The narrow harvest window and vitamin C plus niacinamide combination are what set it apart from other brightening serums on shelves. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026 Niacinamide and vitamin C can help brighten and even out skin tone. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026 But while it’s been proven effective at tasks like brightening dingy whites and descaling coffee makers, does vinegar also work on bathroom odors, bacteria, and buildup? — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for brighten

Recent Examples of Synonyms for brighten

Verb

Be sure to dab stains—don’t rub or press with force—with cool water, which can lighten most spots and remove others altogether.

— Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026
While speaking with the Toronto Star, Stephanie also noted how the two nurses have helped lighten what has sometimes been a challenging experience for her daughters.

— Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of lighten

Verb

Still, given the national attention given last winter to the air conditioning not working properly in an Angel Stadium weight room, Neto said the evaluation from the Rams’ locker room was glowing.

— Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026
The best body scrubs are a cheat code to achieving healthy, glowing skin fast.

— Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of glow

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bright

brighten

brightened

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“Brighten.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brighten. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of brighten

verb

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