intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sə-tē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme degree of strength, force, energy, or feeling

2

: the magnitude of a quantity (such as force or energy) per unit (as of area, charge, mass, or time)

3

: saturation sense 4a

Synonyms of intensity

• enthusiasm
• emotion
• intenseness
• warmth
• passionateness
• passion
• violence

Examples of intensity in a Sentence

the intensity of the sun's rays

the intensity of the argument

The sun shone with great intensity.

Recent Examples on the Web

Every phrase carefully lends a rhythmic, physical intensity. —Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Apr. 2026

Hurricane Andrew, which formed during a transition between Pacific patterns, made two landfalls in the Bahamas and two in South Florida, reaching the state’s southeast coast at Category 5 intensity. —Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

Greater intensity may have distinct benefits across different organ systems. —Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2026

It's called speed puzzling — part rec room, family fun meets NBA Game 7 intensity. —Brian Unger, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intensity

• high-intensity interval training
• hyper-intensity

Rhymes for intensity

• immensity
• propensity
• density

Kids Definition

intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sət-ē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme strength, force, or feeling

2

: the degree or amount of a quality or condition

the intensity of an electric field

Medical Definition

intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sət-ē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme degree of strength, force, energy, or feeling

2

: the magnitude of a quantity (as force or energy) per unit (as of surface, charge, mass, or time)

3

: saturation sense 4a