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.

Shoppers might want to consider a used electric vehicle at least to lessen the pain at the pump.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 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

Rucci previously said the center will use reclaimed wastewater and EPA-certified natural gas generators to help lessen any environmental harms.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

While staying the course with your investment program is likely the best strategy, you can take steps to lessen the risks inherent in today’s “narrow” market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

I understood the monstrousness of his plan, but nothing could lessen my joy at the prospect of obeying.

From "Ella Enchanted" by Gail Carson Levine

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