intently

adverb

in·​tent·​ly in-ˈtent-lē How to pronounce intently (audio)
Synonyms of intently
: in an intent or concentrated manner : with great effort, attention, or concentration
Their eyes, when they look at you and listen intently, focus like laser beams.Molly Haskell
He turned back to face her again and stared at her most intently.Robert C. O'Brien

Examples of intently in a Sentence

intently studied his notes just before the exam
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.
Rescuers then wait intently for any indication of life, using sensitive microphones or telescopic cameras or simply pressing an ear against the rubble, hoping to detect a voice, a knock or the faintest movement. Fernanda Pesce, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026 The act of focusing intently on an object—a holy name, a mantra, the Eucharist—has the potential to transform a person’s desires. Meghan O’Gieblyn, Harpers Magazine, 30 June 2026 The peacocks continue to screech in the distance, while Charli leans on the railing and stares out intently at the Los Angeles skyline. Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 18 June 2026 Burke has pleaded not guilty and followed the Wednesday hearing intently, nodding along as the judge spoke. Nancy Dillon, VIBE.com, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for intently

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intently was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Intently.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intently. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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