verb (used with object)
- to make vigorous or active; invigorate: The wit of Mencken enlivened his age.
- to make sprightly or cheerful; brighten: Flowers enliven any room.
verb (tr)
- to make active, vivacious, or spirited; invigorate
- to make cheerful or bright; gladden or brighten
1630s, “give life to” (enlive in same sense is from 1590s); see en- (1) “make, put in” + life + -en (1). Meaning “make lively or cheerful” is from 1690s. Related: Enlivened; enlivening.