enhance

[ en-hans, -hahns ]

verb (used with object)

, en·hanced, en·hanc·ing.

1. to raise to a higher degree; intensify; magnify:

   The candlelight enhanced her beauty.

   Antonyms: lessen, diminish

2. to raise the value or price of:

   Rarity enhances the worth of old coins.

   Antonyms: reduce

enhance

/ ɪnˈhɑːns /

verb

1. tr to intensify or increase in quality, value, power, etc; improve; augment

Derived Forms

• enˈhancement, noun
• enˈhancer, noun
• enˈhancive, adjective

Other Words From

• en·hance·ment noun
• en·hanc·ive adjective
• un·en·hanced adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of enhance¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English enhauncen, from Anglo-French enhauncer, apparently for Old French enhaucer, equivalent to en- en- ¹ + haucer “to raise” ( French hausser ) from the unattested Vulgar Latin altiāre (derivative of Latin altus “high,” with h-, from Germanic; haughty ), though -n- is unexplained

Word History and Origins

Origin of enhance¹

C14: from Old French enhaucier, from en- ¹+ haucier to raise, from Vulgar Latin altiāre (unattested), from Latin altus high

Synonym Study

See elevate.

Example Sentences

To ensure that all Afghan women see the gains of the last decade, we need to understand, support and enhance existing systems.

From The Daily Beast

Those threats also led security officials to enhance certain security measures last summer.

From The Daily Beast

First, Congress needs to enhance and expand immunities for responsible whistleblowers.

From The Daily Beast

For years, Mooney has trained with a rowing coach to enhance his physical endurance for the potentially yearlong journey.

From The Daily Beast

This is exciting because it seems that this turmeric compound can enhance the characteristics of NSCs.

From The Daily Beast

Wages acquire new value in your eyes, from a wish to supply her with comforts, and enhance her beauty by becoming dress.

From Project Gutenberg

Ought we not to implore his guidance in the selection of a suitable partner, to share our sorrows, and enhance our joys?

From Project Gutenberg

He had observed my embarrassment, and now seemed to enhance the merit of this little success.

From Project Gutenberg

Such an occasion becomes symbolic and is utilized by the ego to enhance its feeling of importance.

From Project Gutenberg

Are we going to enhance my natural beauty, or would you like it—er—toned down a little?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• add to
• appreciate
• augment
• boost
• build up
• complement
• enlarge
• heighten
• increase
• intensify
• raise
• reinforce
• strengthen
• upgrade