CultureAugust 9, 2026

leavening

LEV-uh-ning

Definition

A substance or process that causes dough to rise and become light through the production of gas.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'levenen' and Old French 'levain,' ultimately from the Latin 'levare' meaning 'to raise,' referring to the lifting action of rising dough.

In the news

The article uses the word to describe how yeast acts as a biological agent that causes bread to rise. Understanding this function highlights the historical and scientific role yeast plays in food production.

Optogenetics: Controlling yeast with light

Read the full article ↗

The Straits Times

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