enliven

[ en-lahy-vuhn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make vigorous or active; invigorate:

   The wit of Mencken enlivened his age.

   Synonyms: quicken, stimulate, vivify, inspirit, animate

2. to make sprightly or cheerful; brighten:

   Flowers enliven any room.

   Synonyms: gladden

   Antonyms: depress

enliven

/ ɪnˈlaɪvən /

verb

1. to make active, vivacious, or spirited; invigorate
2. to make cheerful or bright; gladden or brighten

Derived Forms

• enˈlivening, adjective
• enˈlivener, noun
• enˈlivenment, noun

Other Words From

• en·liven·er noun
• en·liven·ing·ly adverb
• en·liven·ment noun
• unen·livened adjective
• unen·liven·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of enliven¹

1625–35; obsolete enlive to give life to ( en- ¹ + life ) + -en ¹

Synonym Study

See cheer.

Example Sentences

And she has promoted new initiatives to repopulate empty storefronts and enliven the night life with markets and music festivals.

From Los Angeles Times

You’ll likely get some items in your share that are new to you, and will enliven your cooking repertoire.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Holman was known for his economical, linear arrangements, which used elegant counterpoint and dissonance to enliven both old standards and his own works.

From New York Times

The combination of two beloved artists is a surefire crowd-pleaser, but “Enchanted Reverie: Klee and Calder” is also noteworthy for its installation, with dark gray walls and elaborate lighting that enliven the art and cast dramatic shadows.

From New York Times

Dudamel used Ravel’s exquisite interplay of instrumental timbres to enliven the moods of “Rapsodie Espagnole,” which opened the concert.

From New York Times

Related Words

• animate
• brighten
• buoy
• entertain
• galvanize
• invigorate
• jazz up
• juice up
• recreate
• rejuvenate
• spice
• stimulate