Intensify
/ɪnˈtensɪfaɪ/
Definitions
To make something greater or more extreme, or to become greater or more extreme.
/ɪnˈtensɪfaɪ/
To make or become more intense, stronger, or extreme.
The heat intensified as the day wore on.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're adding fuel to a fire – intensify is like making the fire get bigger and hotter, or making your feeling stronger. Like when you add more spices, or make your concentration increase.
👶 For kids: To make something stronger, like when you turn up the volume on your music!
More Examples
The government plans to intensify its efforts to combat climate change.
The argument between the two escalated and the tension began to intensify.
How It's Used
"The storm is expected to intensify later this evening."
"Her grief intensified with each passing day."
"The company is looking to intensify its marketing efforts."
From Late Latin *intensificare*, from *intensus* (intense) + *facere* (to make). The word developed through French, indicating a gradual increase in degree or force.
The word 'intensify' has been used since the 17th century, primarily in scientific and philosophical contexts. It's usage has steadily grown across different fields, reflecting a need to describe increases in magnitude or degree.
Memory tip
Think of INTENSE fire. To INTENSIFY is to make it even more intense and therefore, hotter!