intently
Americanadverb
-
in a firmly or steadfastly fixed or directed way, as with the eyes, ears, or mind.
She sat there rapt, leaning on her elbows on the table, listening intently to us.
-
in a fully engaged or determined way that shows strength of purpose.
I know that many others have been working on their versions of the project far more intently—and coherently—than I.
Etymology
Origin of intently
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"When you find people your age that are on fire for Jesus, and are also searching intently, it can be really motivating and really inspiring, and just to know that you're not on your own."
From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026
An AI boom has helped push tech stocks to record highs in recent months, but they are also volatile as global investors watch intently for any signs of a bubble.
From Barron's • Jan. 8, 2026
“Though we expect some delays as we accomplish these updates, we are intently focused on limiting cancellations — especially with customers returning home from holiday travel,” the carrier said in a statement.
From MarketWatch • Nov. 28, 2025
There are evolving displays of solo and group dances, some madly driven, others intently introspective.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 3, 2025
Bobby stood there for a moment, agape: He was just inches away from two players sitting at a table inside, intently moving pieces across a board.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
