gladden
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɡlæd.ən/
KK: /ˈɡlæd.ən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To feel or show happiness or joy.
Example
The news of her promotion gladdened her heart.
Tense Forms
Past: gladdened
Past Participle: gladdened
Conversation
I heard that good news about your promotion!
Yeah, it really did gladden my heart.
I can only imagine how happy you must feel right now.
Absolutely! It's nice to have something to celebrate.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rejoice
delight
cheer
Antonyms
sadden
distress
dismay
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone happy or joyful.
Example
The good news will gladden her heart.
Tense Forms
Past: gladdened
Past Participle: gladdened
Conversation
I heard you got a promotion at work, that must really gladden you!
Yeah, it does! I wasn't expecting it at all.
I'm so happy for you; you deserve it!
Root Explanation
Gladden is formed from "glad" (from Old English "glæd", meaning joyful or happy) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "gladden" means to make someone joyful or happy.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'glad' which means happy, and remember that 'gladden' means to make someone happy.
Visually Confused Words
ungladden
regladden
engladden
laden
pregladden