BRIGHTENS Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

brightens

verb

present tense third-person singular of brighten

as in lightens

to become glad or hopeful the glum soccer player started to brighten upon being told that his injury would not jeopardize his career

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of brightens Vegan green curry, made with apples, coconut milk and a bit of miso — though more Thai than Japanese in palate — brightens roasted cauliflower ($18). —

Cesar Hernandez, San Francisco Chronicle, 27 Mar. 2026 This serum is packed with 15% vitamin C and a barrier boost complex that brightens, firms and supports collagen. —

Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Mar. 2026 Niacinamide brightens the look of dark circles, while adenosine smooths the appearance of wrinkles over time. —

Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 Mar. 2026 Your 11th House of Social Networks brightens as the intuitive Moon conjoins studious Mercury, so thoughtful outreach strengthens bonds and clarifies shared goals, especially within teams and community circles. —

Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 17 Mar. 2026 Your 5th House of Discovery brightens as mischievous Mercury conjoins the life-giving Sun. —

Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 7 Mar. 2026 L’Oréal’s Age Perfect Sunscreen tones, plumps, and brightens skin with collagen peptides and niacinamide, and the SPF 30 protects your skin from new signs of aging caused by sun exposure. —

Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 6 Mar. 2026 As the weather brightens for both Burberry and Lee, the house has entered the 170th anniversary of its foundation by Thomas Burberry back in 1856. —

Luke Leitch, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026 Self-expression softens and brightens as Mercury and free-loving Venus meet in your sign, centering self-appreciation. —

Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for brightens

Verb

Gently rub until the spot lightens.

— Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026
Playing off the conceptual revolution instigated by Duchamp (via Piero Manzoni and Maurizio Cattelan), Johnson’s tasty-looking treat lightens the mood and lets a viewer know to expect the unexpected in the galleries to follow.

— Benjamin Lima Special Contributor, Dallas Morning News, 24 Feb. 2026