Less·en v. t. [imp. & p. p. Lessened p. pr. & vb. n. Lessening.] To make less; to reduce; to make smaller, or fewer; to diminish; to lower; to degrade; as, to lessen a kingdom, or a population; to lessen speed, rank, fortune.
Charity . . . shall lessen his punishment. --Calamy.
St. Paul chose to magnify his office when ill men conspired to lessen it. --Atterbury.
Syn: -- To diminish; reduce; abate; decrease; lower; impair; weaken; degrade.
lessened
adj 1: impaired by diminution [syn: diminished, vitiated, weakened]
2: decreased in severity; made less harsh