intensify

verb

in-ˈten(t)-sə-ˌfī How to pronounce intensify (audio)
Definition of intensifynext
as in to deepen
to make markedly greater in measure or degree intensified her efforts to preserve the town's historic buildings and landmarks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of intensify Late last week, the WMO released a statement warning that El Niño is projected to rapidly intensify during the July to September period, bringing with it broad shifts in weather patterns around the globe. — Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 Europe's automotive industry faces a severe crisis, intensified by the EU's 2035 electric vehicle mandate and fierce Chinese competition. — Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 By expanding in Houston suburbs and the Rio Grande Valley, Sam’s Club is intensifying competition with Costco, BJ’s and local grocers for membership dollars. — Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 6 July 2026 The rapidly intensifying typhoon is expected to pass through the region Monday morning local time and potentially bring catastrophic damage to the territories in the Pacific Ocean, as Isla Public Media has reported. — Kristin Wright, NPR, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for intensify
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intensify
  1. deepen
  2. enhance
  3. heighten
  4. strengthen
Verb
  • Recent allegations of irregularities in government recruitment exams have only deepened frustrations among some young Indians.
    — Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
  • South Korean officials and experts say the vessel was likely built with Russian assistance amid deepening military ties between the countries, but some analysts have questioned how effective the vessel would be in active service.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026
Definition of deepen
Verb
  • More than 30 Will County schools will receive funds to enhance security thanks to $129,777 in grants awarded by the county from the state’s cannabis sales tax revenue.
    — Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • Rainy weather driving tips Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
    — STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 July 2026
Definition of enhance
Verb
  • Trump responded by saying their decision only heightens the importance of Congress passing the SAVE America Act, his effort to rewrite voter eligibility laws.
    — Josh Feldman, NBC news, 30 June 2026
  • The environmental organizations raised concerns about the nearby data center’s potential effects, including noise and light pollution that could alter animals’ breeding patterns and potentially heighten their stress responses.
    — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 30 June 2026
Definition of heighten
Verb
  • Manucurist formulates its masks with panthenol, a form of vitamin B5, to hydrate and strengthen dry nails over time, reducing breakage.
    — Irene Richardson, InStyle, 4 July 2026
  • The only way to preserve our republic is to strengthen the pillars of our present with the mortar of our past.
    — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
Definition of strengthen

Browse Nearby Words

intensifies
intensify
intensifying
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Cite this Entry

“Intensify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intensify. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on intensify

Nglish: Translation of intensify for Spanish Speakers

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