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

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.
The tweeters' brilliance helps liven up the cymbals. Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 1 Apr. 2026 Tassel Outdoor Pillow These throw pillows can be used both indoors and outdoors, and will liven up either space with lush colors and lively patterns. Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 31 Mar. 2026 With the Doodler, the company sought to create something to liven up the average weekday inside the office cubicle. New Atlas, 26 Mar. 2026 Gold and black bangles add some bling, while the metallic-print top livens everything up. Clare Holden, Glamour, 23 Mar. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Liven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liven. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

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

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