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Definition of lessen

lessen

/ˈlɛs.ən/
les · sen
Adjective:lessened
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Past Simple:lessened
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Past Participle:lessened
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Present Participle:lessening
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lessen Lexical Profile

lessen Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become smaller in amount, degree, or intensity.

Example

"Regular exercise and proper rest can significantly lessen the effects of daily stress."

2

To lower the value, importance, or esteem of someone or something; to depreciate or belittle.

Example

"Nothing could lessen the significance of her groundbreaking contribution to medical research."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for lessen
Antonyms
View all antonyms for lessen

Word Nuance & Usage

Frequently confused with its homophone 'lesson' (a period of learning or instruction); 'lessen' is strictly a verb meaning to make or become smaller in amount, degree, or intensity.

• Rhymes for lessen

• Nearby Words

lespedeza
less
lessee
lessen
lesser
lesser black whipsnake
lesson

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as 'lessenen', derived from the comparative adjective 'less' (from Old English 'lǣssa') combined with the verbal suffix '-en'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lessen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lessen
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