intensity

noun

in·ten·si·ty | \ in-ˈten(t)-sə-tē

plural intensities

Definition of intensity

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 & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about intensity

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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

Washington lacked some intensity the past two games after a showdown with the NHL-leading Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday. — Stephen Whyno, The Seattle Times, "Holtby sharp as Capitals beat Flyers to end losing streak," 24 Mar. 2019 And no one expected such intensity: Pence made feverish eye contact, and allegedly spoke with the passion of a revivalist preacher about the need for the team to reawaken. — Ben Rowen, The Atlantic, "Finding the Formula for Team Chemistry," 15 June 2018 Well, in the opening minutes, there was no doubt about the Cavs’ intensity. — Andrew Joseph, For The Win, "LeBron James started Game 3 with an electrifying self alley-oop off the backboard," 6 June 2018 Most important, though, Jody commands a supple and resonant voice, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions without sounding forced, and her theatrical flair ramps up the intensity even further. — David Whiteis, Chicago Reader, "Southern soul-blues queen Ms. Jody always respects herself in the morning," 5 June 2018 While the specific signs to look for will depend on your condition, increased intensity of symptoms like pain, swelling, and itching is a clear sign to see a doctor, Dr. Paik says. — Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, "What the Hell Is a Sitz Bath? (And Why Would You Take One?)," 14 Mar. 2019 That knowledge could help new users make more informed decisions about training days, intensity levels, and rest periods. — Valentina Palladino, Ars Technica, "Garmin Vivosmart 4 review: An affordable band for easy fitness, SpO2 data," 27 Oct. 2018 Its criminal designation varies in intensity, with California's version counting as either a third-degree felony or a misdemeanor. — Sam Machkovech, Ars Technica, "YouTube tells impersonation victim: No, you’re not being impersonated," 6 Dec. 2018 If world leaders insist on maintaining historical rates of economic growth, and there are no step-change advances in technology, hitting that target requires a rate of reduction in carbon intensity for which there is simply no precedent. — David Roberts, Vox, "The case for “conditional optimism” on climate change," 29 Jan. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'intensity.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.