# liven

/ˈɫaɪvən/ (US) · /lˈaɪvn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/liven
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to make something more fun, bright, or interesting. You use it when a place, event, or talk feels dull and needs more life.

For teachers: to make or become more lively, cheerful, or interesting. Often paired with the particle 'up'.

## Examples

- She livens up the room with bright pictures.
- He tells jokes to liven up the long meeting.
- The new lights and music liven the old hall, turning a dull evening into a warm celebration.

## Synonyms

brighten, enliven

## Antonyms

Bore

## Usage notes

- Often pairs with 'up' ('liven up'); can be transitive with an object or intransitive without one.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.