brighten

Etymology

From bright + -en.

verb

1. (transitive) To make bright or brighter in color.
   We brightened the room with a new coat of paint.
2. (transitive) To make illustrious, or more distinguished; to add luster or splendor to
3. (transitive, figurative) To make more cheerful and pleasant; to enliven
   to brighten one's prospects;  Having Mark around the place really brightens things up.
   An Ecstasie, which Mothers only feel, / Plays round my heart and brightens up my sorrow. 1712, Ambrose Philips, The Distrest Mother
4. (intransitive) To grow bright, or more bright in color; to clear up
   The sun starts to brighten around this time of the year.  The sky brightened as the storm moved on.
5. (intransitive) To become brighter or more cheerful in mood
   She brightened when I changed the subject.