intensify

in·ten·si·fy

verb \in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī\

in·ten·si·fiedin·ten·si·fy·ing

Definition of INTENSIFY

transitive verb

1

: to make intense or more intensive : strengthen

2

a : to increase the density and contrast of (a photographic image) by chemical treatment

b : to make more acute : sharpen

intransitive verb

: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute

— in·ten·si·fi·ca·tion \-ˌten(t)s-fə-ˈkā-shən, -ˌten(t)-sə-\ noun

Examples of INTENSIFY

1. We could hear the wind howling outside as the storm intensified.
2. They intensified their efforts to increase sales.
3. an intensified search for survivors

First Known Use of INTENSIFY

1817

Related to INTENSIFY

Synonyms

accentuate, amp (up), amplify, beef (up), boost, consolidate, deepen, enhance, heighten, 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

in·ten·si·fy

verb \in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī\   (Medical Dictionary)

in·ten·si·fied; in·ten·si·fy·ing

Medical Definition of INTENSIFY

transitive verb

1

: to make intense or more intensive

2

a : to increase the density and contrast of (a photographic image) by special treatment b : to make more acute <use of illicit drugs intensified the patient's condition>

intransitive verb

: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute <the sore throat, headache, and fever intensified as the disease progressed>

—in·ten·si·fi·ca·tion \-ˌten(t)s-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən\ (audio pronunciation) noun