intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s 
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
intensely
adverb
intenseness
noun
Examples of intense in a Sentence
He shielded his eyes from the intense flash of light.
She has an intense dislike for her husband's friend.
After many years of intense study, he received his medical degree.
School reform is a subject of intense debate.
The work requires intense concentration.
He was an intense young man who was very determined to do well in school.
Recent Examples on the Web
During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
—
Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2025
The visiting clubhouse attendants lit the same White Barn candles — mahogany teakwood intense — that brought the room back to life last month after the Phillies sprayed champagne and beer to celebrate a division title.
—Matt Gelb, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
The team also determined that dust devils have seasonality, with intense whirlwind activity taking place during the spring and summer months in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
—Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025
At this level, official guidance directs members of sensitive groups to avoid long or intense outdoor activities and to consider moving these indoors or rescheduling.
—Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intense
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Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2025
The visiting clubhouse attendants lit the same White Barn candles — mahogany teakwood intense — that brought the room back to life last month after the Phillies sprayed champagne and beer to celebrate a division title.
—Matt Gelb, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
The team also determined that dust devils have seasonality, with intense whirlwind activity taking place during the spring and summer months in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
—Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025
At this level, official guidance directs members of sensitive groups to avoid long or intense outdoor activities and to consider moving these indoors or rescheduling.
—Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intense
Cite this Entry
“Intense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intense. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s
1
: existing in an extreme degree
intense pain
2
: done or performed with great zeal, energy, or eagerness
intense study
3
: feeling deeply
an intense actor
intensely
adverb
intenseness
noun
Medical Definition
intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s
1
a
: existing in an extreme degree
intense anxiety
b
: extremely marked or pronounced
a neurodermatitis with intense itching and burning of the skin—H. G. Armstrong
H. G. Armstrong
c
: very large or considerable
intense radiation
2
a
: feeling deeply especially by nature or temperament
b
: deeply felt
intense emotions
intensely
adverb
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