intently

[ in-tent-lee ]

adverb

1. in a firmly or steadfastly fixed or directed way, as with the eyes, ears, or mind:

   She sat there rapt, leaning on her elbows on the table, listening intently to us.

2. in a fully engaged or determined way that shows strength of purpose:

   I know that many others have been working on their versions of the project far more intently—and coherently—than I.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intently¹

intent ²( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The young woman in the black-and-white photograph peers at the camera intently, exuding a confidence beyond her years.

From Los Angeles Times

The bodyguard sits next to Hamza and will spend much of the next 22 minutes staring intently at him.

From BBC

As a filmmaker and a visual art, he looks intently, hoping to glean answers to questions that feel unanswerable.

From Los Angeles Times

Listening intently, with his hands clasped and a smile on his face, the three-time Republican presidential nominee approvingly replied: "Yeah."

From BBC

Breed listened intently as they detailed their grievances.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attentively
• closely
• keenly