plural intensities
Synonyms 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

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
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 Dropkick Murphys build intensity through repetition, allowing the track to accelerate without losing its rawness. — Brittney Williams, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026 That's awesome but then again college sports are in my opinion better then the professional level mainly because of the intensity of the crowd . — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 22 Sep. 2026 Diana paused for a second, surprised at the intensity of the spite. — Katie Nicholl, Vanity Fair, 22 Sep. 2026 Nordrum didn’t quite rip out my heart the way Rickman did 31 years ago, but his watchful intensity gives him one of the most moving character arcs. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 21 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intensity

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intensity was in 1665

Cite this Entry

“Intensity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intensity. Accessed 30 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

intensity

noun
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
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

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