liven

verb

liv·​en ˈlī-vən 

livened; livening 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

Synonyms of liven

• stimulate
• jazz (up)
• zip (up)

Examples of liven in a Sentence

He played some music to liven the atmosphere.

Recent Examples on the Web

Best Wayfair New Year Super Sale Decor Deals If your home feels bare after packing away holiday knick-knacks, consider adding a decorative touch to liven things up. —Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026

With the majority of New Balance’s 1906L loafer releases thus far using neutral looks with limited pops of color, an upcoming release looks to liven up the model with a mix of shades. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 6 Jan. 2026

Arkansas forward Malique Ewin raised his arms up and down to liven the crowd after Knox's last-second make. —Matt Byrne, Arkansas Online, 5 Jan. 2026

The herbs—whether dill, parsley, or chives—add a fresh, aromatic note that livens up the whole situation. —Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for liven

• ivan
• enliven

Kids Definition

liven

verb

liv·​en ˈlī-vən 

livened; livening ˈlīv-(ə-)niŋ 

: to make or become lively

—often used with up