Leaven: meaning, definitions and examples

Same word as before, used in the same contexts.

• He insisted that the secret to good bread was in the quality of the leaven used.
• This small act of kindness will leaven the atmosphere in the office.

Refers specifically to a type of fungus used in baking and brewing to ferment and cause dough to rise. Common in recipes and discussions about traditional bread-making.

• She added yeast to the dough and let it sit for an hour to rise.
• Brewers use yeast to ferment the beer.

Commonly used term in cooking and baking to describe substances that cause batter or dough to rise. Typically used in recipes and culinary discussions.

• Baking powder is a common raising agent used in cakes.
• The recipe calls for a raising agent to ensure the bread is light and fluffy.

Typically used in baking to refer to the substance that causes dough to rise. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate something that lifts or improves a situation.

• He added a bit of yeast to leaven the dough.
• Her humor served to leaven the serious atmosphere of the meeting.

Used to describe making something more lively or interesting, often through adding energy, excitement, or activity.

• The music helped to enliven the dull party.
• Her presence seemed to enliven the room.

Commonly used to describe something becoming lighter or more vivid in color. It can also refer to improving a mood or atmosphere.

• The sun began to brighten the sky.
• She smiled to brighten his day.