The term EXTENUATE is defined as to lessen the seriousness or extent of something, often by providing an EXCUSE or justification. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as DEBILITATE (10 letters), which means to WEAKEN or reduce the strength of something; VENEER (6 letters), which is a thin layer applied to the surface of something to make it look better; LIGHTEN (7 letters), which means to make something less heavy or serious; GLOSS (5 letters), which is a type of shine or luster; DILUTE (6 letters), which means to make something weaker or less concentrated; JUSTIFY (7 letters), which means to provide a good reason for something; WEAKEN (6 letters), which means to make something less strong; DIMINISH (8 letters), which means to make something smaller or less important; VINDICATE (9 letters), which means to clear someone from blame; EXCUSE (6 letters), which means to forgive someone for a mistake; MITIGATE (8 letters), which means to make something less severe; and PALLIATE (8 letters), which means to make something more bearable. All of these words are related to the term EXTENUATE, as they all describe ways to lessen the seriousness or extent of something.