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Definitions

lessen

[les-uhn] / ˈlɛs ən /
VERB
lower, reduce
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abate curtail decrease dilute diminish dwindle ease erode impair lighten minimize mitigate narrow shrink slacken taper off weaken
STRONG
abridge amputate attenuate clip close contract crop cut de-escalate decline degrade downsize drain minify moderate soft pedal taper thin truncate
WEAK
become smaller cut back die down grow less roll back slack up slow down take the bite out take the edge off take the sting out wind down
Antonyms
STRONGEST
develop enlarge expand extend grow increase intensify irritate lengthen prolong strengthen worsen
STRONG
go up rise stretch
WEAK
raise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And some opponents of the term “functional cure” say it may lessen the urgency for achieving the ultimate goal: a complete cure.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

"I think this project can help lessen that stress and stop the burden of paying £300 for a dress."

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

This has enabled Pyongyang to lessen dependence on its main long-term backer, China.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

The change sought to reduce the amount of EtO released from commercial sterilizers by 90% and lessen the hazards for nearby communities.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

But Frodo felt the chill lessen in his side and arm; a little warmth crept down from his shoulder to his hand, and the pain grew easier.

From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.