intently

[in-tent-lee]

adverb

1. 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.

2. 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intently¹

intent ² ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

She and her mother had been on their way to drop off a jacket at the dry cleaners when they spotted a group of suspicious-looking men, watching intently from down the street.

From Los Angeles Times

He listens intently as Ven explains where he wants his treatment.

From BBC

I listened intently with my roommate as if it were a true crime podcast.

From Salon

With their headphones on, they bobbed their heads to the beats they were cooking up and watched intently as sound waves danced across their laptop screens.

From Los Angeles Times

Listening as intently to Pulis as the fledgling coaches – and laughing just as hard at the jokes – at the back of the room is the man who oversees the course, Dave Adams.

From BBC

Related Words

• attentively 
• closely www.thesaurus.com
• keenly