Synonyms of brightening

brightening

verb

present participle of brighten

as in lightening

to become glad or hopeful

the glum soccer player started to brighten upon being told that his injury would not jeopardize his career

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lightening
• glowing
• reviving
• encouraging
• cheering (up)
• looking up
• sparkling
• radiating
• rejoicing
• beaming
• perking (up)
• bucking up
• gladdening
• livening (up)
• heartening

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• darkening
• saddening
• brooding
• despairing
• moping
• fretting
• desponding

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of brightening

Though it's already packed with energizing caffeine and circulation-boosting ginseng, the formula takes the brightening powers up a notch with light-reflecting particles that could pass for a full eight hours of sleep. — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 1 Oct. 2026

That’s why this skin tint, which has hydrating squalane along with brightening vitamin C and SPF for sun protection made my list. — Jacqueline Tempera, InStyle, 24 Sep. 2026

Crepe Control® Tightening Body Cream is a transforming treatment packed with peptides plus lifting and brightening agents to visibly tighten and even skin tone. — ABC News, 17 Sep. 2026

From low pH water toners to milkier formulas packed with brightening ingredients like rice extract—consider these picks as formulas that set the canvas for a supple complexion. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2026

The narrow harvest window and vitamin C plus niacinamide combination are what set it apart from other brightening serums on shelves. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 26 Aug. 2026

But while it’s been proven effective at tasks like brightening dingy whites and descaling coffee makers, does vinegar also work on bathroom odors, bacteria, and buildup? — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 24 Aug. 2026

Thousands of these space mirrors brightening the night sky could spell the death of astronomy. — Wayne Harris-Wyrick, Oklahoman, 15 Aug. 2026

Even with their fortunes brightening in Michigan, Republicans are clear-eyed about the headwinds this year. — Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 6 Aug. 2026