intensify
verb
in·ten·si·fy
in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī 
intensified; intensifying
: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute
1
: to make intense or more intensive : strengthen
2
a
: to make more acute : sharpen
b
: to increase the density and contrast of (a photographic image) by chemical treatment
Examples of intensify in a Sentence
We could hear the wind howling outside as the storm intensified.
They intensified their efforts to increase sales.
an intensified search for survivors
Recent Examples on the Web
This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
—
Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 Sep. 2025
If fully earned, the award would materially increase Musk's voting power from his roughly 13% stake, intensifying debate over governance and succession.
—Akash Sriram, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025
Washington’s move also highlights the tough balancing act these companies face as tensions between the world’s two largest economies intensify.
—John Liu, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025
But Tesla also faces intensifying competition from the big Detroit automakers and particularly from China.
—Michelle Chapman, Chicago Tribune, 5 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intensify
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.
Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 Sep. 2025
If fully earned, the award would materially increase Musk's voting power from his roughly 13% stake, intensifying debate over governance and succession.
—Akash Sriram, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2025
Washington’s move also highlights the tough balancing act these companies face as tensions between the world’s two largest economies intensify.
—John Liu, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025
But Tesla also faces intensifying competition from the big Detroit automakers and particularly from China.
—Michelle Chapman, Chicago Tribune, 5 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for intensify
Cite this Entry
“Intensify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intensify. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intensify
verb
in·ten·si·fy
in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī
intensified; intensifying
: to make or become intense or more intensive
intensifier
noun
-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r
Medical Definition
intensify
verb
in·ten·si·fy
in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī
intensified; intensifying
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
: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute
the sore throat, headache, and fever intensified as the disease progressed
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share