English Explanatory Dictionary

lessen

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To make less; to diminish; to reduce.
  2. To become less.
conj
  1. unless.

Pronunciation

lěʹsən /ˈlɛsən/ En-us-lessen.ogg /lɛsˈsɛn/

Word forms

lessen lessens lessening lessened

Etymology

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

Synonyms

remit blunt abate

Derived words

lessenable lessener unlessening
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