Leavened

To 'leaven' (verb) means to introduce a substance (such as yeast or baking powder) into dough or batter, causing it to rise and become light. Figuratively, it can mean to introduce a modifying influence or element that uplifts, improves, or transforms something, often to a more positive or pleasant state. The core concept is an agent that causes expansion or improvement. The resulting adjective, 'leavened', describes something that has undergone this process, signifying it has expanded, become lighter, or been improved by an introduced element.

Leavened meaning with examples

• The baker used a traditional sourdough starter to leaven the bread, resulting in a wonderfully airy texture. The long fermentation process allowed complex flavors to develop. The final loaf, golden-brown and fragrant, proved the technique's effectiveness, a testament to properly leavened bread.
• Her humor and optimism leavened the otherwise somber atmosphere of the meeting. She had a knack for finding the silver lining. Her positive attitude allowed her to inspire the team to continue working and be optimistic. Her attitude provided much needed comfort to all involved.
• The historical narrative, while comprehensive, could have been leavened with more personal anecdotes. The use of primary sources would make it feel much more authentic to a broader audience. The lack of these points in the presentation made it feel very lacking in its appeal to many listeners.
• The chef decided to use a bit of fresh lemon zest to leaven the richness of the cream sauce. The acidity cut through the fat and created a more balanced flavor. The result was much more palatable and appealing. The slight hint of lemon made it a much more well-rounded dish.