intensify

[ in-ten-suh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, in·ten·si·fied, in·ten·si·fy·ing.

1. to make intense or more intense.

   Synonyms: concentrate, quicken, deepen

   Antonyms: weaken, alleviate

2. to make more acute; strengthen or sharpen.

   Synonyms: concentrate, quicken, deepen

3. Photography. to increase the density and contrast of (a negative) chemically.

verb (used without object)

, in·ten·si·fied, in·ten·si·fy·ing.

1. to become intense or more intense.

intensify

/ ɪnˈtɛnsɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to make or become intense or more intense
2. tr to increase the density of (a photographic film or plate)

Derived Forms

• inˌtensifiˈcation, noun

Other Words From

• in·tensi·fi·cation noun
• de-in·tensi·fy verb deintensified deintensifying
• over·in·tensi·fi·cation noun
• over·in·tensi·fy verb overintensified overintensifying
• self-in·tensi·fied adjective
• self-in·tensi·fying adjective
• unin·tensi·fied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of intensify¹

First recorded in 1810–20; intense + -ify

Synonym Study

See aggravate.

Example Sentences

As climate patterns intensify, understanding flood risk is becoming essential for both homebuyers seeking to make informed choices and policymakers aiming to safeguard communities and manage the impact on real estate markets.

From Science Daily

The "bomb cyclone" - as forecasters call it - is caused by air pressure quickly dropping off the coast, which has rapidly intensified the weather system.

From BBC

Efforts for a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified, with Lebanon's government due to respond to a draft deal presented by the US.

From BBC

It is set to intensify competition with rival Eli Lilly, whose popular weight-loss treatment also got the green light months ago but has yet to go on sale in the world's second largest pharmaceutical market.

From BBC

It came as Russia intensified attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure as the sides appear to have reached a stalemate on the battlefield.

From BBC

Related Words

• add to
• aggravate
• boost
• build up
• deepen
• enhance
• escalate
• exacerbate
• heat up
• heighten
• increase
• quicken
• raise
• redouble
• reinforce
• set off
• sharpen
• step up
• strengthen