Meaning & Definition
verb
to make (something) more interesting, lively, or entertaining.
The colorful decorations helped to enliven the dull conference room.
to animate or give life to something.
The storyteller's animated performance truly enlivened the evening.
to cheer up or invigorate.
Her infectious laughter always seems to enliven our spirits.
to make an event more enjoyable or exciting.
The band was hired to enliven the wedding reception with their lively music.
Etymology
From Middle English enlivenen, from in- + livin (to live).
Common Phrases and Expressions
enliven the crowd:
to excite or energize the audience
enliven the conversation:
to make the discussion more engaging
enliven one's spirits:
to boost one's mood or morale
Slang Meanings
to spice things up
Let's get some music to enliven this dull gathering.
to jazz up
He really knows how to enliven an event.