leaven

leaven
[ˈlɛv(ə)n]
noun
  1. [mass noun]a substance, typically yeast, that is added to dough to make it ferment and rise
    酵素，酵母
    ■dough that is reserved from an earlier batch in order to start a later one fermenting
    面肥，老面
    ■(figurative)a pervasive influence that modifies something or transforms it for the better
    (喻)影响
    they acted as an intellectual leaven to the warriors who dominated the city.
    他们对占领城市的武士启发文化的影响。
verb
[with obj.]
  1. [usu. as adj. leavened]cause (dough or bread) to ferment and rise by adding leaven
    用酵母（或老面）使（面团，面包）发酵
    leavened breads are forbidden during Passover.
    逾越节期间禁吃发酵饼。
  2. permeate and modify or transform (something) for the better
    （朝好的方向）影响
    the proceedings should be leavened by humour.
    会议录应当增添点趣味。
    [as noun leavening]companies of Territorial Army volunteers with a leavening of regular soldiers.
    掺有正规军士兵的地方义勇军连队。
语源
  1. Middle English: from Old French levain, based on Latin levamen 'relief' (literally means of raising'), from levare to 'lift'
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