darken

[dahr-kuhn]

verb (used with object)

1. to make dark or darker.

2. to make obscure.

3. to make less white or clear in color.

4. to make gloomy; sadden.

   He darkened the festivities by his presence.

   Synonyms: deject, blacken, dispirit, depress

5. to make blind.

verb (used without object)

1. to become dark or darker.

2. to become obscure.

3. to become less white or clear in color.

4. to grow clouded, as with gloom or anger.

5. to become blind.

darken

/ ˈdɑːkən /

verb

1. to make or become dark or darker

2. to make or become gloomy, angry, or sad

   his mood darkened

3. (usually used with a negative) to visit someone

   never darken my door again!

Other Word Forms

• darkener noun
• undarken verb (used with object)
• well-darkened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of darken¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, darken is from the Middle English word derknen. See dark, -en ¹

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. darken someone's door, to come to visit; make an appearance.

   Never darken my door again!

Example Sentences

As a younger cook, I was still learning not to flinch when food darkened in the pan — to trust that the caramelized bits clinging to the bottom weren’t mistakes, but flavor waiting to happen.

From Salon

One commenter on X insists they can see Swift’s bangs in the completely darkened image.

From Los Angeles Times

Local news that would darken her doorstep: Anything about road closures due to f— marathons.

From Los Angeles Times

Left in the darkened closet, Starr testified she heard the whir of an electric drill as the intruder boarded up the doors with sheets of plywood.

From Los Angeles Times

It should be cooked until darkened and crisp at the edges, then drained well.

From Salon

Related Words

• blacken 
• dim 
• eclipse 
• obscure 
• overshadow