Meaning of the word leavening in English

What does leavening mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

leavening

US /ˈlev.ən.ɪŋ/
UK /ˈlev.ən.ɪŋ/
"leavening" picture

Noun

1.

a substance, such as yeast or baking powder, used to make dough or batter rise

Example:
Yeast is a common leavening agent used in bread making.
The recipe calls for a teaspoon of leavening.
2.

an influence that modifies something or makes it less serious

Example:
His humor provided a necessary leavening to the somber meeting.
The book needs a leavening of hope to balance the tragedy.

Verb

present participle of leaven: to add a substance to dough to make it rise, or to permeate with a modifying influence

Example:
She is leavening the dough for the morning bread.
The author is leavening the serious plot with witty dialogue.
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