(transitive) To make bright or brighter in colorWe brightened the room with a new coat of paint.
(transitive) To make illustrious, or more distinguished; to add luster or splendor to
Jonathan SwiftThe present queen would brighten her character, if she would exert her authority to instill virtues into her people.
(transitive, figuratively) To make more cheerful and pleasant; to enlivento brighten one's prospectsHaving Mark around the place really brightens things up.
PhilipsAn ecstasy, which mothers only feel, Plays round my heart and brightens all my sorrow.
(intransitive) To grow bright, or more bright in color; to clear upThe sun starts to brighten around this time of the year.The sky brightened as the storm moved on.
(intransitive) To become brighter or more cheerful in moodShe brightened when I changed the subject.
