lighten up

verb

lightened up; lightening up; lightens up

intransitive verb

: to take things less seriously

Examples of lighten up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Think craveable dishes that sneak in more veggies, lighten up your go-to comfort foods, and empower you to navigate the kitchen with confidence, no matter your skill level. Brittany Delay, Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2025 After a winter season full of jewel tones and dark hues, our manis need some lightening up. Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 7 Apr. 2025 This jacket come in many colors and is an easy way to lighten up your wardrobe with spring hues. Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Cover the alcove in colorful tile to lighten up a space that can quickly feel dark. Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lighten up

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lighten up was in 1911

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Cite this Entry

“Lighten up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lighten%20up. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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