leaven

²leaven

verb

leav·enedleav·en·ing\ˈlev-niŋ, ˈle-və-\

Definition of LEAVEN

transitive verb

1

: to raise (as bread) with a leaven

2

: to mingle or permeate with some modifying, alleviating, or vivifying element; especially : lighten <a sermon leavened with humor>

Examples of LEAVEN

1. He needs to leaven his speeches with more humor.
2. using yeast to leaven the dough

First Known Use of LEAVEN

15th century

Other Food Terms

Reuben, calamari, chuck, curry, edamame, foie gras, hummus, leaven, nonpareil, peel

Rhymes with LEAVEN

seven