Synonyms of brightens

brightens

verb

present tense third-person singular of brighten

as in lightens

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

• lightens
• glows
• revives
• looks up
• cheers (up)
• encourages
• perks (up)
• rejoices
• sparkles
• radiates
• bucks up
• beams
• gladdens
• heartens
• livens (up)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• darkens
• saddens
• despairs
• broods
• frets
• desponds
• mopes

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of brightens

This 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner is an earthy, leathery scent that opens with a cheerful pop of mandarin, which brightens up the richer notes of rose, osmanthus, and vetiver. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 12 Aug. 2026

Its dewy coverage gives cheeks a bright, doll-like, natural flush that highlights the cheekbones and brightens complexions. — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 1 Aug. 2026

Saturated without feeling loud, the playful hue transforms the Moss table and chairs into a statement set that brightens the whole room (though a natural Birch finish is also available for color skeptics). — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 31 July 2026

The forecast comes as noctilucent clouds are being seen in the northern hemisphere, a comet brightens and two meteor showers peak — just weeks before a total solar eclipse, for which solar eclipse glasses are required. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

It’s infused with hyaluronic acid and rose complex, which brightens and hydrates the skin. — Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026

Pre-soaking socks in baking soda, vinegar, or oxygen bleach removes stains and brightens whites. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 30 July 2026

Your 7th House of Partnership brightens as the nurturing Moon conjoins romantic Venus, encouraging fairer exchanges in close relationships. — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2026

Your 1st House of Identity brightens as the dynamic Sun in your sign squares structuring Saturn in your 10th House of Career. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 6 July 2026