Lessen
Lessen verb - To make smaller in amount, volume, or extent.
Usage example: we lessened our efforts as it became clear they weren't having an effect
Shrink is a synonym for lessen in abate topic. In some cases you can use "Shrink" instead a verb "Lessen", when it comes to topics like lower, diminish, reduce, decrease. popular alternative
Shrink
Shrink verb - To become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter.
Usage example: the sweater will shrink a little when washed
Lessen is a synonym for shrink in decrease topic. You can use "Lessen" instead a verb "Shrink", if it concerns topics such as abate, diminish, reduce, shrivel. popular alternative
Mutual synonyms
Common collocations
Cite this Source
Shrink and Lessen. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/lessen/shrink
Lessen & Shrink. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/lessen/shrink>.
Shrink or Lessen. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/lessen/shrink.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "lessen" and "shrink" have occurred on timeline