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liven

play
verb liv·en \ ˈlī-vən \

Definition of liven

livened; livening play \ˈlī-və-niŋ, ˈlīv-niŋ\
transitive verb
:enliven —often used with up
  • he … livened up the editorial page
  • —Current Biography
intransitive verb
:to become lively

See liven defined for English-language learners

See liven defined for kids

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Examples of liven in a Sentence

  1. He played some music to liven the atmosphere.

Recent Examples of liven from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'liven.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of liven

circa 1628

LIVEN Defined for English Language Learners

liven

play
verb

Definition of liven for English Language Learners

  • : to make (something) more lively, interesting, or exciting

  • : to become more lively, interesting, or exciting

LIVEN Defined for Kids

liven

play
verb liv·en \ ˈlī-vən \

Definition of liven for Students

livened; livening
:to make or become lively Hint: Liven is often used with up. He knows how to liven up a meeting.

Learn More about liven

  1. Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for liven Spanish Central: Translation of liven Nglish: Translation of liven for Spanish speakers

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Examples: liven in a Sentence