Lighten (verb)

1. To make something lighter in weight.
2. To make something less heavy, dense, or compact.
3. To reduce the weight or load of something.
4. To make something brighter or clearer.
5. To reduce the severity or intensity of something, such as a burden or worry.

Origin:

Derived from old english 'līhtan' meaning 'to make light or bright'. first recorded in english in the 14th century.

Examples:

1. She lightened the load of her backpack before continuing the hike.
2. The engineer worked to lighten the design of the bridge to reduce stress on the structure.
3. The cook lightened the sauce by adding more broth.
4. The clouds lightened as the sun rose.
5. He tried to lighten the mood by telling jokes during the meeting.