leavening

1 of 2

noun

leav·​en·​ing ˈle-və-niŋ 

ˈlev-niŋ

: a leavening agent : leaven

leavening

2 of 2

present participle of leaven entry 2

Examples of leavening in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This step introduces air into the eggs, which aids in leavening and keeps the blondies from baking up too dense. — Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026

Baking powder is a leavening agent that combines sodium bicarbonate with an acid. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2026

Active starter better mimics the slow rise leavening action of yeast (in breads and rolls) versus quick acting leaveners like baking soda and powder. — Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2026

The leavening effect of this movement, however, has already created a new disposition of the Roman Catholic soul. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 28 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1626, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

leavening

noun

: a leavening agent : leaven entry 1 sense 1