heighten

height·en

verb \ˈhī-t^ən\

height·enedheight·en·ing \ˈhīt-niŋ, ˈhī-t^ən-iŋ\

Definition of HEIGHTEN

transitive verb

1

a : to increase the amount or degree of : augment

b : to make brighter or more intense : deepen

c : to bring out more strongly : point up

d : to make more acute : sharpen

2

a : to raise high or higher : elevate

b : to raise above the ordinary or trite

3

obsolete : elate

intransitive verb

1

archaic : grow, rise

2

a : to become great or greater in amount, degree, or extent

b : to become brighter or more intense

Examples of HEIGHTEN

1. The plan will only heighten tensions between the two groups.
2. This tragedy has heightened our awareness of the need for improved safety measures.
3. Tensions between the two groups have heightened.

First Known Use of HEIGHTEN

1523

Related to HEIGHTEN

Synonyms

accentuate, amp (up), amplify, beef (up), boost, consolidate, deepen, enhance, intensify, magnify, redouble, step up, strengthen

Antonyms

abate, moderate

Related Words

broaden, enlarge, expand, extend, lengthen; accelerate, hasten, quicken; emphasize, point (up), sharpen, stress; augment, enforce, reinforce (also reenforce), restrengthen, supplement; maximize; enliven, jazz (up); aggravate, exacerbate

Near Antonyms

decrease, diminish, lessen, let up (on), reduce, subdue, tone (down), weaken; dwindle, recede, subside, taper (off), wane; alleviate, ease, lighten

Rhymes with HEIGHTEN

brighten, Brighton, chitin, chiton, frighten, lighten, tighten, titan, triton, whiten