lessen /ˈlɛsən/ TEM4 ( lessening, lessened, lessens )

• 1. 

  V-T/V-I If something lessens or you lessen it, it becomes smaller in size, amount, degree, or importance. 减少; 降低; 减轻

  例：

  He is used to a lot of attention from his wife, which will inevitably lessen when the baby is born.

  他习惯了妻子无微不至的关心，这种关心在孩子出生以后将不可避免地减少。

• 2. 

  lessening N-UNCOUNT 减轻

  例：

  ...increased trade and a lessening of tension on the border.

  …贸易的增加和边境紧张局势的减轻。