Definition of LESSEN

lessen

Verb

Verb Forms: lessened, lessening, lessens

  • To make or become smaller or less in amount or degree.
  • decrease in size, extent, or range
  • make smaller
  • wear off or die down
  • To make less; to diminish; to reduce.
  • To become less.

Conj

  • unless.

Examples

  • He tried to LESSEN his opponent’s lead by emptying his rack for a bonus.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English lessenen, lasnen, equivalent to less + -en (verbal suffix).

Antonyms

increase

Scrabble Score: 6

lessen: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
lessen: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
lessen: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 8

lessen: valid Words With Friends Word