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 That, along with a flamenco vibe, enlivens the design (Christopher Ash for set and lighting and Mark Eric for costumes). Guillermo Perez, Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2025 Black remained a powerful statement color across brands’ collections, but is frequently enlivened with unexpected pops of vibrant hues. Angela Lei, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 Bolger enlivens her traditional interiors with contemporary elements, and functionality is always a focus. Dan Howarth, Architectural Digest, 17 Mar. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for enliven
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enliven
stimulate
Verb
  • These wildfires, while destructive, have also provided researchers with insights into giant sequoia ecology, revealing that moderate-severity burns can stimulate seed release and create favorable germination conditions.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025
  • Muscles, heart rate, strength, motor control — and the brain — all are stimulated by exercise.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 23 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Enliven.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enliven. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

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