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Definition of enliven

enliven

/ɪnˈlaɪ.vən/
en · li · ven
Adjective:enlivening
•
Past Simple:enlivened
•
Past Participle:enlivened
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Present Participle:enlivening
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enliven Lexical Profile

enliven Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make something more entertaining, interesting, or appealing.

Example

"The professor used humorous anecdotes to enliven the otherwise dry history lecture."

2

To make someone more cheerful, vigorous, or spirited.

Example

"A brisk walk in the crisp autumn air helped to enliven the weary travelers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for enliven

• Nearby Words

enlist
enlistee
enlistment
enliven
enlivenment
enmesh
enmity

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 17th century from the prefix 'en-', the noun 'life', and the verb-forming suffix '-en', replacing the earlier Middle English form 'enlive'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Enliven. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/enliven
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