brightens

Makes more luminous

Brightens is a form of brighten.

When something brightens, it becomes lighter or more luminous: The sky brightens at dawn.

A room brightens when you open the curtains or add lamps.

Figuratively, faces and moods brighten when they become more cheerful: Her expression brightened when she saw him.

To brighten something up is to make it more lively or attractive: Fresh flowers brighten up any room.

illuminates

light

Visible electromagnetic radiation

glowSteady, soft light
shineEmit or reflect light
beamStructural support member

radiance · sparkle · luminescence · flare · flash · halo · luster · torch · candlelight · lantern

cheers

uplift

Raise emotionally or physically

smilePleased facial expression
moodPrevailing emotional condition
joyIntense positive emotion

spirits · lighthearted · sunny · optimism · delight · happy · buoyant · elation · glee · contentment

intensifies

vivid

Intensely clear and bright

vibrantFull of life, intensity
saturatedThoroughly soaked through
boldCourageous and daring

brilliant · radiant · luminous · enhance · amplify · heighten · enrich · deepen · boost · strengthen

Opposites

light/luminosity

brightensdarkens

Becomes less bright

dims · dulls · fades · obscures · shadows

mood/emotional state

brightensdepresses

Causes gloom or lowers

darkens · dampens · saddens · disheartens · dispirits

color/appearance

brightensdulls

Reduces sharpness or intensity

fades · darkens · discolors · grays · tarnishes

Phrases

brighten upMake lighter or happier
brightened upBecame more cheerful
brighter future
brightening upMaking more luminous or cheerful
brightest starsMost luminous celestial objects
not the brightest bulbLacking intelligence or wit

Family

brighten, brighter, brightest, brightened, brightening, brightener, brighteners, brighten up

Familiarity: Top 50,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G