intensify

verb

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

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
in-ˌten(t)s-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce intensify (audio)
-ˌten(t)-sə-
noun

Synonyms of intensify

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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.
Economists warn that higher prices on recreational activities — whether in or out of the home — can further intensify the average Joe's economic pessimism. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 11 July 2026 Tensions between the two tech companies have strained their relationship, as the race to develop AI products has intensified competition for talent and proprietary technology. — Stephen Nellis, USA Today, 11 July 2026 Earlier, at least 17 people were killed in the southern Philippines, mostly due to landslides that were set off by seasonal monsoon rains that Bavi intensified before the typhoon blew away toward Taiwan, Philippine officials said Saturday. — Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026 These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service. — Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2026 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

Rhymes for intensify

See All Rhymes for intensify

Browse Nearby Words

intensifier
intensify
intension
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intensify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intensify. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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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
-ˌten(t)-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce intensify (audio)
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
-ˌten(t)s-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce intensify (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on intensify

Nglish: Translation of intensify for Spanish Speakers

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