darken

Darken is a verb meaning to make something less bright or to become less bright. It can be transitive, as in “darken the room,” or intransitive, as in “the sky darkened.” The noun form darkening refers to the process or result of becoming darker. The word is formed from the adjective dark with the suffix -en and is of Germanic origin.

In physics and everyday observation, darkening occurs when light is absorbed or scattered, reducing the amount of light reflected toward an observer. Causes include clouds, shadows, twilight, shading by objects, or deliberate use of coverings and curtains. The phenomenon also describes the natural progression of light levels during sunset or in dim environments.

In art and color theory, darkening a color means adding black or a darker pigment to reduce brightness and alter tone. This is a common technique in painting, printing, and design to create contrast, depth, or mood.

Common uses include transitive phrases such as “darken the room” and intransitive ones like “the sky darkened.” Metaphorically, darken can describe making something seem more negative, as in “darken public opinion.” Surfaces can darken with age due to oxidation or patina. The term remains versatile across practical, artistic, and figurative contexts.