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 Space Force contends it follows federal environmental laws and has commissioned studies to lessen the flights’ impact on wildlife and reduce residents’ exposure to sonic booms.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

"There will probably be a moment where we see it return elsewhere and lessen the impact of the conflict if it continues," she added.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 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

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

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

As I listened I had been so torn between humiliation and fascination that to lessen my sense of shame I had kept my attention riveted upon his intense face.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison

Vocabulary lists containing lessen

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