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
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.
Keep in mind, Venus will meet with Pluto in your sign on Feb. 7, which could intensify dynamics between you and a close friend or acquaintance. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025 Those talks are likely to intensify with Thursday’s NBA trade deadline fast approaching. Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee, 1 Feb. 2025 The purge intensified Monday when, according to the New York Times, former IG office staffers were directed to surrender to their agencies work laptops, phones, parking decals, and ID cards. Andrew C. McCarthy, National Review, 1 Feb. 2025 In recent months, companies have rolled back such policies, and Trump's move may intensify the trend. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for intensify 

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 9 Feb. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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