[ˈlɛvn], (Noun)

Definitions:
- a substance, typically yeast, that is used in dough to make it rise

- a pervasive influence that modifies something or transforms it for the better
(e.g: they acted as an intellectual leaven to the warriors who dominated the city)


Phrases:

Origin:
Middle English: from Old French levain, based on Latin levamen ‘relief’ (literally ‘means of raising’), from levare ‘to lift’

[ˈlɛvn], (Verb)

Definitions:
- cause (dough or bread) to rise by adding yeast or another raising agent
(e.g: it only take a little bit of yeast to leaven the bread)

- permeate and modify or transform (something) for the better
(e.g: the proceedings should be leavened by humour)


Phrases:

Origin:
Middle English: from Old French levain, based on Latin levamen ‘relief’ (literally ‘means of raising’), from levare ‘to lift’