When enhance was borrowed into English in the 13th century, it literally meant to raise something higher. That sense, though now obsolete, provides a clue about the origins of the word. Enhance, which was spelled enhauncen in Middle English, comes to us from Anglo-Frenchenhaucer or enhauncer ("to raise"), which can be traced back to the Latin altus ("high") by way of an assumed Vulgar Latin verb inaltiare, which would have been formed by combining the prefix in- with the Latin altus. Although enhance initially applied only to physically making things higher, it developed an additional and less literal sense of "to exalt especially in rank or spirit," and quickly acquired extended figurative senses for raising the value or attractiveness of something or someone.
You can enhance the flavor of the dish by using fresh herbs.
The image has been digitally enhanced to show more detail.
The company is looking to enhance its earnings potential.
Recent Examples on the WebExpert endorsements enhance a brand’s credibility and trustworthiness, further reinforcing the bond between the company and its audience.—Brent Gleeson, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Velcro cuffs, a chin guard, and an adjustable hem help enhance protection from water and wind.—Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 20 Oct. 2024 For witches, this type of intuitive insight is part of their magical practice, enhancing their ability to protect and care for one another.—Valerie Mesa, People.com, 19 Oct. 2024 This enhances physique while improving strength, mobility, and stability, perfect for establishing good holistic health.—Dominique Fluker, Essence, 19 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for enhance
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Word History
Etymology
Middle English enhauncen, from Anglo-French enhaucer, enhauncer, from Vulgar Latin *inaltiare, from Latin in + altus high — more at old
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