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

Amaya said there is little doubt that the ongoing El Niño is headed for an extraordinary peak intensity, given how much heat lurks just beneath the surface of the tropical Pacific, destined to rise up over time. — Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 25 Aug. 2026

Data from Circana shows that during the first half of the year, eaux de parfum saw the strongest performance, though on the other end of the pricing and intensity spectrum, so did ancillary products like soaps, creams and shower gels. — Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 25 Aug. 2026

The Sparks played with more defensive intensity against Atlanta this time. — John W. Davis, Oc Register, 25 Aug. 2026

Like yoga or dance, the experience is a workout that feels in alignment with the body’s natural movements, at an intensity appropriate to wielding an ancient weapon. — Rebecca Leib, Los Angeles Times, 24 Aug. 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