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

Even at its most brooding, “Gemini” is enlivened by amusing wordplay and Heynderickx’s wry delivery.

From New York Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

She touted her efforts to forge change, and smiled as she talked about enlivening downtown with night markets and music festivals on the waterfront.

From Los Angeles Times

Even so, it was a remarkable evening, enlivening orchestra and audience alike and becoming one for the Hollywood Bowl history books.

From Los Angeles Times

There were many successes — like the extravagant aerialists and fire dances who enlivened our dance floor.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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