darken up
The phrase "darken up" can be used in various contexts, from literal color changes to metaphorical mood shifts.
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Definition
B2General
(common)To make or become darker in color or shade.
Example
- She decided to darken up the walls by painting them a deep blue.
B2Lighting
(common)To reduce the amount of light in a space or area.
Example
- They darkened up the room by drawing the curtains.
C1Mood
(idiomatic)To become more serious or somber in mood or tone.
Example
- The conversation darkened up when they started discussing the recent events.
C1Technology
(technical)For photochromic lenses, to automatically become more tinted when exposed to sunlight.
Example
- His glasses darkened up as soon as he stepped outside.
C1Automotive
(technical)For engine oil, to become darker over time due to the accumulation of contaminants.
Example
- The oil darkened up after several hours of engine use.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "darken up":
dark upgo darkbrighten uplighten upsadden upblack upcolor upbrown upsharpen updark lightblacked upmuddy upin the darkfatten uptighten updeep colorharden upfirm uptone downdark kitchenbutch upblack out