liven

verb

liv·​en ˈlī-vən How to pronounce liven (audio)
livened; livening ˈlī-və-niŋ How to pronounce liven (audio)
ˈlīv-niŋ

transitive verb

: enliven
—often used with up
… he … livened up the editorial page.—Current Biography

intransitive verb

: to become lively

Synonyms of liven

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Examples of liven in a Sentence

He played some music to liven the atmosphere.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This quilt is the perfect choice to liven up your bedroom. — Caley Sturgill, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 June 2026 These colorful shorts can liven up any capsule pieces in your wardrobe. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 10 June 2026 On her visits, Bonda noticed that the bare cinderblock wall along the patio could use some livening up. — Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026 Adding a little pop of electric blue instantly livens up what could otherwise be a boring outfit. — Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for liven

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of liven was circa 1628

Rhymes for liven

See All Rhymes for liven

Browse Nearby Words

lively interest
liven
liveness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Liven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liven. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

liven

verb
liv·​en ˈlī-vən How to pronounce liven (audio)
livened; livening ˈlīv-(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce liven (audio)
: to make or become lively
—often used with up

More from Merriam-Webster on liven

Nglish: Translation of liven for Spanish Speakers

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