Heightened
ˈhaɪtənd
Definitions
2 meaningsTo increase the intensity, degree, or amount of something.
ˈhaɪtən
To make or become more intense.
The music heightened the drama of the scene.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're making something bigger, but instead of size, it's about how strong, important, or exciting something feels. For instance, if a movie is getting more exciting, you could say the drama is heightened.
👶 For kids: To make something bigger or stronger, like making a feeling stronger.
More Examples
The government's announcement heightened public concern.
Their excitement heightened as the concert began.
How It's Used
"The therapy sessions were designed to heighten self-awareness."
"The author used vivid imagery to heighten the suspense."
"The company invested in new technologies to heighten production efficiency."
Made more intense or extreme; increased in degree or intensity.
ˈhaɪtənd
Having become more intense.
The heightened security measures were implemented after the security breach.
💡 Simply: Think of something that's already strong or intense, but then it gets even *more* so. It's like the volume knob on a radio going up. For example, if you were really worried about something and then it got worse, you could say your concern was heightened.
👶 For kids: When something is bigger or stronger than it was before.
More Examples
With the fire raging nearby, the fear among the townspeople was heightened.
The actor's performance conveyed a heightened sense of emotion.
How It's Used
"Heightened tensions between the two countries led to a crisis."
"Security measures were heightened after the attack."
"She experienced a heightened sense of anxiety."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English heghten, a past participle of heighten, from Old English hēah (high) + -en (verb-forming suffix).
The word 'heighten' has been used since the 14th century, initially to refer to making something physically higher, but soon broadened to mean increasing intensity.
Memory tip
Think of making something HIGHER (heighten) - making it more intense.
Word Origin
"High; to make high"