1. present participle of leaden; making heavy, dull, or sluggish
Usage: typically used in progressive or continuous constructions

1. becoming heavy, dull, or oppressive; characterized by a leaden quality
Usage: descriptive use; often applied to atmosphere, mood, or physical sensation

Examples

• The gray sky was leadening the mood of the entire gathering.
• A leadening silence fell over the room after the announcement.
• The weight of responsibility was leadening his shoulders.
• The atmosphere grew increasingly leadening as the day wore on.
• Her leadening footsteps echoed through the empty hallway.
• The news had a leadening effect on everyone's spirits.