What does redden mean?
Redden means to become red or to make something red. The word is especially associated with visible color changes caused by heat, sunlight, exertion, embarrassment, anger, or embarrassment: a face reddens, the sky reddens, or wind reddens exposed skin. It can function intransitively, as in “her cheeks reddened,” and transitively, as in “dust reddened the hills.” Redden is more descriptive and literary than the more general verb “turn,” while differing from “blush,” which usually implies a sudden reddening of the face caused by embarrassment, excitement, shame, or anger. Although “redden” can also mean simply “make red,” its common figurative use presents redness as an observable sign of a physical or emotional condition.
verbTo become red or make something red. It is often used of a person's face, skin, or another surface changing color because of heat, emotion, light, or another cause.
- To become red, especially as the result of heat, exertion, emotion, or light.
- To make something red or give it a red color.
"The child began to redden as the heat of the summer afternoon increased."
"The western sky reddened as the sun approached the horizon."
"Strong wind and blowing sand reddened the faces of the hikers."
A reddened face can reveal heat, exertion, embarrassment, or anger before a single word is spoken.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does redden come from?
Redden is an English formation based on the adjective “red” with the suffix “-en.” It was in use by the late Middle English period. The adjective “red” comes from Old English rēad and has close relatives in other Germanic languages, including Dutch rood and German rot.
Related word forms
How redden is actually used
Redden is common in descriptive and literary contexts. It may be used intransitively for a person or surface becoming red, or transitively when something causes or makes something red.
Easily confused with redden
Redden means to become or cause something to become red, whereas a riddle is a question or puzzle intended to be solved.