What does darkening mean?
"Darkening" is a noun referring to the process by which something becomes dark, or is made dark. It can describe literal changes — such as the fading of daylight, the thickening of storm clouds, or the dimming of a room — and it also carries a well-established figurative sense, describing a deterioration in mood, atmosphere, or circumstances, as in "a darkening of relations between the two countries." The word derives from the verb "to darken," which combines "dark" with the common English suffix "-en" indicating a change of state, plus the suffix "-ing" to form a noun or present participle. In tone, "darkening" tends toward a slightly literary or descriptive register, appearing frequently in weather writing, fiction, and journalism. Its connotations are generally sombre or ominous, making it useful for conveying both physical gloom and emotional or political decline.
The act, process, or result of becoming dark or making something dark.
"The slow darkening of the room made reading difficult."
Often used descriptively about weather, light, or atmosphere.
Present participle of 'darken': to become dark or make something dark.
"The clouds were darkening overhead as we set out."
Rarely used in the plural; usually treated as an uncountable process noun.
"The painting captures successive darkenings of the evening light."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of darkening
Darkening comes from the verb "to darken," formed in Middle English from the adjective "dark" plus the suffix "-en," which marks verbs of becoming or causing a state. The noun form arises from the suffix "-ing." It shares its ultimate root with other words built on "dark," an Old English term related to words for concealment and shadow.
Related word forms
How darkening is actually used
Common in both literal and figurative contexts. The figurative use often carries a slightly literary or formal tone.
Easily confused with darkening
"Darker" is the comparative adjective describing something with less light, while "darkening" refers to the process of becoming dark.