brighten

Universal Words verb 1 to become or make sth lighter or brighter in colour: [V] In the distance, the sky was beginning to brighten. * [VN] a shampoo to brighten and condition your hair 2 ~ (sth) (up) to become, feel or look happier; to make sb look happier: [V] Her eyes brightened. * He brightened up at their words of encouragement. * [VN] A smile brightened her face. 3 ~ (sth) (up) to become or make sth become more pleasant, enjoyable or hopeful: [VN] A personal letter will usually brighten up a person's day. [also V] 4 [VN] ~ sth (up) to make sth look more colourful and attractive: Fresh flowers will brighten up any room in the house. 5 [V] ~ (up) (of the weather) to improve and become brighter: According to the forecast, it should brighten up later.