intensify

verb

in·​ten·​si·​fy in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī How to pronounce intensify (audio)
intensified; intensifying

intransitive verb

: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute

transitive verb

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
intensification noun

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 Yet the iPhone maker is struggling with intensifying competition in the world’s largest smartphone market, and regulatory challenges in getting its buzzy new AI service in the hands of Chinese consumers. Lionel Lim, Fortune Asia, 23 Oct. 2024 The Influence of Confirmation Bias In addition to negativity bias, confirmation bias—the tendency to seek information that supports our pre-existing beliefs—further intensifies election anxiety. Nicole Lipkin, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 Hair and skin type also play a role; dark, coarse hair absorbs more laser energy, intensifying treatment, while lighter hair may cause less discomfort due to lower energy absorption. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2024 The institute foresees debt reaching 80% of GDP, assuming the fighting does not markedly intensify and some sort of cease-fire or conclusion can be reached by the end of next year. David McHugh, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intensify 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'intensify.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intensify was in 1817

Dictionary Entries Near intensify

Cite this Entry

“Intensify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intensify. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

intensify

verb
in·​ten·​si·​fy in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī How to pronounce intensify (audio)
intensified; intensifying
: to make or become intense or more intensive
intensification noun
intensifier
-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r
noun

Medical Definition

intensify

verb
in·​ten·​si·​fy in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī How to pronounce intensify (audio)
intensified; intensifying

transitive verb

1
: to make intense or more intensive
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

intransitive verb

: to become intense or more intensive : grow stronger or more acute
the sore throat, headache, and fever intensified as the disease progressed
intensification noun

More from Merriam-Webster on intensify

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