leaven

[ˈlɛvən]

leaven Definition

• 1. a substance, typically yeast, that is added to dough to make it ferment and rise
• 2. an element that produces an altering or transforming influence

Using leaven: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "leaven" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The bread dough needs leaven to rise properly.

• Example

  The new manager brought a fresh leaven to the company culture.

• Example

  Her presence was like a leaven in the group, lifting everyone's spirits.

• Example

  The idea of democracy was a leaven that transformed society.

leaven Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for leaven

• yeast
• barm
• sourdough
• ferment
• raising agent

Phrases with leaven

• leaven with

  to mix a substance, especially yeast, into dough to make it rise

  Example

  The recipe calls for the dough to be leavened with yeast.

• leaven of democracy

  the transformative power of democratic ideals on society

  Example

  The leaven of democracy has been spreading across the world, inspiring people to fight for their rights.

• leavening agent

  any substance used to make dough or batter rise and become light and porous

  Example

  Baking powder is a common leavening agent used in cakes and muffins.

Origins of leaven

from Old English 'lǣfan', meaning 'to leave behind, bequeath'

📌

Summary: leaven in Brief

'Leaven' [ˈlɛvən] refers to a substance, usually yeast, that is added to dough to make it rise. It can also mean an element that produces an altering or transforming influence. Examples include 'The bread dough needs leaven to rise properly.' and 'The idea of democracy was a leaven that transformed society.' 'Leaven' can be used as a verb, as in 'The recipe calls for the dough to be leavened with yeast.'