Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for lessen. Search instead for ressen.
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.

The ChatGPT developer got its biggest backing from Amazon.com as it looks to lessen its dependence on Microsoft.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

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

This could include making staff redundant, or negotiating with landlords to lessen the burden of "onerous contracts".

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

“But the people that were more worried about the labor market—this should probably increase their concern, not lessen it.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

But what I knew to be practical advice didn’t lessen my disappointment at not being able to watch Ernie march triumphantly to the stage to receive that diploma.

From "Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High" by Melba Pattillo Beals