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

These flexible and supportive runners feature breathable mesh uppers that provide excellent ventilation, keeping feet cool even on hot days or during high-intensity workouts. —Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 11 Mar. 2026

New realms would stop appearing; the intensities of the forces would stabilize; and gravity would turn out to make perfect sense after all. —Quanta Magazine, 11 Mar. 2026

Working in hospitality is a different kind of intensity, requiring physical and mental endurance. —Laura Ness, Mercury News, 11 Mar. 2026

The intensity heightened even further when Millbury sophomore Ryan Nikiforow (10 points, 8 rebounds) collected two offensive rebounds to extend the ensuing possession. —Justin Barrasso, Boston Herald, 11 Mar. 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