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.

Lessen food waste by using frozen vegetables and proteins.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2023

“Whut you need two mules fuh? Lessen you aims to swap off dis one.”

From "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston

Lessen it, as on last night, and the result is distressing.

From Sons and Fathers by Edwards, Harry Stillwell

Lessen the flow of the current in one of the streams, and the rush will bend a little less before that current and swing around to the side from which it receives less pressure.

From Steam, Steel and Electricity by Steele, James W.

Lessen the quantity of food, and oblige the fowl to exercise in an open walk.

From Sheep, Swine, and Poultry Embracing the History and Varieties of Each; The Best Modes of Breeding; Their Feeding and Management; Together with etc. by Jennings, Robert

Vocabulary lists containing lessen

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Road Trip Magical Mystery List A

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