intense

adjective

in·​tense in-ˈten(t)s How to pronounce intense (audio)
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
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 Ryder Cup is the one competition in golf that should be played in front of an intense, feverish crowd, the kind that can’t be captured by the virtual reality headsets European captain Luke Donald gave his players. Ian O'Connor, New York Times, 24 Sep. 2025 That said, those with drier hair types may find the formula a touch too intense. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 24 Sep. 2025 British actors in their mid 20s to early 30s, with stellar acting chops, who fit the Bond mould, are going to be under an intense spotlight for the next 12 months. Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 24 Sep. 2025 The process is slightly more of a battle of attrition than the usual engagements, adding an intense change of pace even beyond the action-heavy additions to basic combat. Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intense

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of intense was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intense. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

intense

adjective
in·​tense in-ˈten(t)s How to pronounce intense (audio)
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 How to pronounce intense (audio)
1
a
: existing in an extreme degree
intense anxiety
b
: extremely marked or pronounced
a neurodermatitis with intense itching and burning of the skinH. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on intense

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