lessen

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb decrease in size, extent, or range
  2. verb make smaller
  3. verb wear off or die down

Etymology

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

In classic literature

Synonyms

decrease, diminish, fall

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