vivify

[ viv-uh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, viv·i·fied, viv·i·fy·ing.

1. to give life to; animate; quicken.
2. to enliven; brighten; sharpen.

vivify

/ ˌvɪvɪfɪ'keɪʃən; ˈvɪvɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to bring to life; animate
2. to make more vivid or striking

Derived Forms

• vivification, noun
• ˈviviˌfier, noun

Other Words From

• vivi·fi·cation noun
• vivi·fier noun
• un·vivi·fied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of vivify¹

First recorded in 1535–45; late Middle English from Middle French vivifier from Late Latin vīvificāre ). See vivi-, -fy ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of vivify¹

C16: from Late Latin vīvificāre, from Latin vīvus alive + facere to make

Example Sentences

Opie’s backdrop is a damask drapery in dark green, red’s vivifying complementary color.

From Los Angeles Times

His debut collection, “Afterparties,” published after his death in 2020 from an accidental drug overdose, showcased his considerable talent for vivifying members of the Cambodian community in Stockton.

From Los Angeles Times

But Gurnah avoids that misstep by gently vivifying the lives of a few African characters in all their rich humanity and even their comedy, without sentimentality or condescension.

From Washington Post

Bowers’ works typically create a vivifying tautness between the individual and the group.

From Los Angeles Times

“Freedom Uncut” vivifies Michael for younger generations that didn’t live through the Pop Star Wars of the ’80s.

From New York Times