freshen
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfrɛʃən/
KK: /ˈfrɛʃən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become more lively or invigorated, often referring to the wind or the freshness of something.
Example
The wind began to freshen as the storm approached.
Tense Forms
Past: freshened
Past Participle: freshened
Conversation
Have you noticed how the wind seems to freshen up in the evening?
Yeah, it's so nice after a hot day!
I love when it freshens up like that; it makes sitting outside more enjoyable.
Absolutely! It really changes the whole atmosphere.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
brisken
revive
renew
Antonyms
weaken
diminish
fade
transitive verb
Definition
To make something fresh or to improve its quality, often by adding something new or refreshing.
Example
She decided to freshen the room by adding some new flowers and painting the walls.
Tense Forms
Past: freshened
Past Participle: freshened
Conversation
I think I need to freshen up my drink a bit.
What are you going to add to it?
Maybe some lime juice to really freshen the flavor.
Root Explanation
Freshen → It is formed from "fresh" (from Old English *fresca*, meaning new or recently made) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "freshen" means to make something fresh or to restore freshness.
Memory Tip
Think of something becoming 'new' or 'recent' ('fresh') when you 'make' it so ('-en'). This helps you remember that freshen means to restore freshness.
Visually Confused Words
refreshen
fleshen
foreshoe
foresend