Synonym Chooser

How is the word enliven distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of enliven are animate, quicken, and vivify. While all these words mean "to make alive or lively," enliven suggests a stimulus that arouses from dullness or torpidity.

enlivened her lectures with humorous anecdotes

When might animate be a better fit than enliven?

While in some cases nearly identical to enliven, animate emphasizes the imparting of motion or vitality to what is or might be mechanical or artificial.

happiness animated his conversation

When is quicken a more appropriate choice than enliven?

In some situations, the words quicken and enliven are roughly equivalent. However, quicken stresses a sudden renewal of life or activity especially in something inert.

the arrival of spring quickens the earth

Where would vivify be a reasonable alternative to enliven?

The meanings of vivify and enliven largely overlap; however, vivify implies a freshening or energizing through renewal of vitality.

new blood needed to vivify the dying club

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of enliven The selection of quirky talking heads are interrupted and enlivened by eye-catching footage from a similarly diverse array of Creede Repertory Theatre productions past and present. Lauren Wissot, IndieWire, 10 Mar. 2025 The city is often enlivened with light art, particularly during its Christmas celebrations and cultural festivals, like the new LUV Fest that took place in February and March. Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 Still, the organization’s plans for using the draft to enhance and enliven its backfield were tackled for a loss. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2025 The way the film swims through the contradictions, considerations, and cultural reverie of the rural South is genuinely enlivening. Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for enliven
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enliven
stimulate
Verb
  • Aeration stimulates new growth to cover areas damaged by fairy rings.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 11 May 2025
  • Zaria Court is designed to stimulate local economies, creating jobs not only in sports but also in surrounding sectors, from retail to hospitality.
    Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Enliven.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enliven. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on enliven

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