livened; livening
ˈlī-və-niŋ 
ˈlīv-niŋ
: enliven
—often used with up
… he … livened up the editorial page.—
Current Biography
Current Biography
: to become lively
Examples of liven in a Sentence
He played some music to liven the atmosphere.
Recent Examples on the Web
The energetic print is a strategic way to liven up even the most basic outdoor furniture arrangements, making future pool days feel that much brighter or even bringing back some life to the backyard on gloomy days.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026
This air of uncertainty should liven up the final stop on the eternal awards blitz.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 13 Mar. 2026
With vibrant blooms, zinnas liven up any garden and attract pollinators.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026
With a little care, flowering bulbs and other plants can liven up these dreary winter days.
—Dawn Pettinelli, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2026
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Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2026
This air of uncertainty should liven up the final stop on the eternal awards blitz.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 13 Mar. 2026
With vibrant blooms, zinnas liven up any garden and attract pollinators.
—Lauren David, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026
With a little care, flowering bulbs and other plants can liven up these dreary winter days.
—Dawn Pettinelli, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for liven
Cite this Entry
“Liven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liven. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
liven
verb
liv·en
ˈlī-vən
livened; livening
ˈlīv-(ə-)niŋ
: to make or become lively
—often used with up
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