Whitened: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the action of making something white as part of a routine or improvement. This word is neutral and is often used in product descriptions.

• The paper was whitened to make it look cleaner.
• Her teeth were professionally whitened at the dentist.

A chemical process to make something white or lighter. Often used in a context that involves cleaning, disinfecting, or color removal. It has a more technical and sometimes harsher implication.

• She had to bleach the kitchen counter to remove the stains.
• He bleached his hair to achieve a platinum blonde look.

Used to reduce the darkness or intensity of a color or space. Can also mean to make a mood less serious. It is typically softer and broader in application.

• You can lighten the wall color by choosing a pastel shade.
• He told jokes to lighten the atmosphere.

Used to make something more vivid, cheerful, or happy. It can apply to colors, moods, or spaces. It has a positive connotation and is more general than just changing color.

• Opening the curtains will brighten the room.
• Her smile brightened the entire evening.

Used when something has been made or has become white, typically through a process. Often refers to teeth, walls, or fabrics.

• Her teeth were whitened by the dentist
• The walls were whitened to refresh the room

Used for a chemical process to remove stains or color, often for cleaning purposes. It carries a somewhat negative connotation due to the harsh effects it can have.

• She used bleach to clean the mold off the bathroom tiles
• His shirt was accidentally bleached in the laundry

Used to describe making something less dark or heavy, in terms of color, weight, or mood. It has a more general use compared to other words.

• He lightened the paint by mixing it with white
• She decided to lighten her workload

Used when making something look more cheerful or lively, not necessarily changing its color to white. Can be used in a literal or metaphorical sense.

• She added colorful pillows to brighten the living room
• His smile seemed to brighten the whole room