leaven

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Weapons” has something for everyone: jump scares for horrorphiles, nods to classics like “Rashomon” and “Magnolia” for film buffs, and more than a few laughs to leaven the tension.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 26, 2025

I also used to leaven the proceedings with humor.

From Salon • Feb. 2, 2024

An hour or two each week grappling with wood planks or mixing batter can leaven a long and monotonous school day.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 13, 2023

I found the embellishments that the directors devised — among them classic magic tricks with playing cards and levitation — leaven the play’s more plodding contrivances.

From Washington Post • Jan. 26, 2023

For one thing, any hopes my father may have had that to meet the General in person would arouse a sense of respect or sympathy to leaven his feelings against him proved without foundation.

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro