lighten /ˈlaɪtən/ TEM8 ( lightening, lightened, lightens )

• 1. 

  V-T/V-I When something lightens or when you lighten it, it becomes less dark in colour. 使变明亮; 变得明亮

  例：

  The sky began to lighten.

  天空开始变得明亮了。

• 2. 

  V-T If someone lightens a situation, they make it less serious or less boring. 缓和

  例：

  Anthony felt the need to lighten the atmosphere.

  安东尼觉得需要缓和一下气氛。

• 3. 

  V-T/V-I If your attitude or mood lightens, or if someone or something lightens it, they make you feel more cheerful, happy, and relaxed. 使轻松; 变得轻松

  例：

  As they approached the outskirts of the city, Ella's mood visibly lightened.

  随着他们越来越接近市郊，埃拉的心情明显变得轻松了。