intensify

[in-ten-suh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

intensified, intensifying 

1. to make intense or more intense.

   Synonyms: concentrate, quicken, deepen
   Antonyms: weaken, alleviate

2. to make more acute; strengthen or sharpen.

   Synonyms: concentrate, quicken, deepen

3. Photography.,  to increase the density and contrast of (a negative) chemically.

verb (used without object)

intensified, intensifying 

1. to become intense or more intense.

intensify

/ ɪnˈtɛnsɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to make or become intense or more intense

2. (tr) to increase the density of (a photographic film or plate)

Other Word Forms

• intensification noun
• de-intensify verb
• overintensification noun
• overintensify verb
• self-intensified adjective
• self-intensifying adjective
• unintensified adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of intensify¹

First recorded in 1810–20; intense + -ify

Synonym Study

See aggravate.

Example Sentences

"In more and more ways, we are in a long-term and intensified conflict with Russia," a Western official said.

Read more on Barron's

"Electrocution and railway collisions cause a significant number of elephant fatalities, while mining and highway construction disrupt habitats, intensifying man-wildlife conflicts," the report added.

Read more on Barron's

According to eyewitnesses, the chemical warehouse stored bleaching powder, plastic and hydrogen peroxide, all of which can intensify fires.

Read more on BBC

It is also likely to intensify pressure on lawmakers to introduce tighter restrictions on chatbot companions.

Read more on BBC

As these pulses intensify, they may interfere with brain function and contribute to memory decline and Alzheimer's progression.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• add to www.thesaurus.com
• aggravate 
• boost 
• build up 
• deepen 
• enhance 
• escalate 
• exacerbate 
• heat up 
• heighten 
• increase 
• quicken 
• raise 
• redouble 
• reinforce 
• set off 
• sharpen 
• step up 
• strengthen