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.
Their mood seemed to lighten up everyone else, who were tired from non-stop KCON coverage. Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2025 Despite the ongoing dispute, Parsons plans to not only stay at training camp, but also participate in team drills when his back tightness lightens up. Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2025 That said, there are ways to lighten up the flavors to be more fitting for the season—and to ease up on the alcohol, too. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 July 2025 Get the recipe 09 of 10 Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken The tangy, briny pepperoncini peppers lighten up this slow cooker chicken for warm summer nights. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 20 June 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 19 Aug. 2025.

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