leavening

noun

leav·​en·​ing ˈle-və-niŋ How to pronounce leavening (audio)
ˈlev-niŋ
Synonyms of leaveningnext
: a leavening agent : leaven

Examples of leavening in a Sentence

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.
Check the expiration dates, especially for ingredients like spices and leavening agents that might not look spoiled but can lose their potency, and toss any expired or unwanted items. Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026 Cream of tartar can be found in the baking section of the market and is used as a leavening agent and stabilizer. Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 24 Jan. 2026 Second, the leavening agents (baking powder or soda) activate slowly, which creates soft, pillowy cookies with a crispy edge. Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 16 Dec. 2025 On the other hand, chemical leavening destroys both the beneficial microbes and the metabolites. Caroline Tien, SELF, 10 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for leavening

Word History

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leavening was in 1626

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Leavening.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leavening. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

leavening

noun
: a leavening agent : leaven entry 1 sense 1

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