Main Entry: in·tense

Pronunciation: \in-ˈten(t)s\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin intensus, from past participle of intendere to stretch out

Date: 15th century

1 a : existing in an extreme degree <the excitement was intense> <intense pain> b : having or showing a characteristic in extreme degree <intense colors>
2 : marked by or expressive of great zeal, energy, determination, or concentration <intense effort>
3 a : exhibiting strong feeling or earnestness of purpose <an intense student> b : deeply felt

— in·tense·ly adverb

— in·tense·ness noun