from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Brighten \Bright"en\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Brightened}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Brightening}.]
Note: [From {Bright}, a.]
1. To make bright or brighter; to make to shine; to increase
the luster of; to give a brighter hue to.
[1913 Webster]
2. To make illustrious, or more distinguished; to add luster
or splendor to.
[1913 Webster]
The present queen would brighten her character, if
she would exert her authority to instill virtues
into her people. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
3. To improve or relieve by dispelling gloom or removing that
which obscures and darkens; to shed light upon; to make
cheerful; as, to brighten one's prospects.
[1913 Webster]
An ecstasy, which mothers only feel,
Plays round my heart and brightens all my sorrow.
--Philips.
[1913 Webster]
4. To make acute or witty; to enliven. --Johnson.
[1913 Webster]