capital-intensive

adjective

cap·​i·​tal-in·​ten·​sive ˈka-pə-tᵊl- in-ˈten(t)-siv How to pronounce capital-intensive (audio)
ˈkap-tᵊl-
: having a high capital cost per unit of output
especially : requiring greater expenditure in the form of capital than of labor

Examples of capital-intensive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The highly technical and capital-intensive requirements, as well energy challenges, have hindered attempts to boost domestic upskilling. Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 27 Feb. 2026 Whereas some of our other, perhaps more innovative projects—like the hot water heat pumps, which are still ongoing—are capital-intensive and not everyone can do them yet. Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 2026 The combination of power grids, advanced chips and the continual growth of data centers worldwide proves that AI is now a physical, capital-intensive force reshaping and deciding which economies and geopolitical players will win the next decade and beyond. Mark Minevich, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026 The years-long process of making traditional tentpole games has become increasingly challenging and capital-intensive, with more nimble and inexpensive titles getting corporate emphasis. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for capital-intensive

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of capital-intensive was in 1959

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Cite this Entry

“Capital-intensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/capital-intensive. Accessed 4 Mar. 2026.

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