Definition of: chasten

(chā′sən) v.t.
1. To discipline by punishment or affliction; chastise.
2. To moderate; soften; temper.
3. To refine; purify.
—chast′en·er n.
—chast′en·ing noun Synonyms: afflict, castigate, chastise, correct, discipline, humble, punish, purify, refine, soften, subdue, try. Castigate and chastise refer strictly to corporal punishment, although both are somewhat archaic. Punish is distinctly retributive in sense; chasten, wholly corrective and merciful in intent and result. See REPRESS, REPROVE. [<OF chastier <L castigare correct. See CASTIGATE.]