1817 (transitive), from intense + -ify, first attested in Coleridge, in place of intend, which he said no longer was felt as connected with intense. Intransitive sense is from 1845. Middle English used intensen (v.) 'to increase (something), strengthen, intensify,' early 15c. Related: Intensified; intensifying. Ishowu studio 2 2 1.
I am aware that this word [intensifying] occurs neither in Johnson's Dictionary nor in any classical writer. But the word, 'to intend,' which Newton and others before him employ in this sense, is now so completely appropriated to another meaning, that I could not use it without ambiguity: while to paraphrase the sense, as by render intense, would often break up the sentence and destroy that harmony of the position of the words with the logical position of the thoughts, which is a beauty in all composition, and more especially desirable in a close philosophical investigation. I have therefore hazarded the word, intensify; though, I confess, it sounds uncouth to my own ear. [Coleridge, footnote in 'Biographia Literaria,' 1817]
Entries related to intensify
2 days ago More than 1.7 million people have been tested statewide for the virus. Of the 162,325 Wisconsinites who have tested positive: 80.7%, or 127,576, have 'recovered'. New Delhi, Sep 28: The farmers groups and political parties have decided to intensify protests against the three farm bills that were signed into a law on Sunday by President Ram Nath Kovind.
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Intensify definition, to make intense or more intense.
Dictionary entries near intensify
intend
intendant
intended
intense
Others are reading
Intensify definition, to make intense or more intense.
Dictionary entries near intensify
intend
intendant
intended
intense
Intensify 1 0 4 0
intensification
intensify
intension
Cisdem window manager 3 2 0 3. intensity
intensive Lego dc super villains 1 0.
Intensify 1 0 4 +
intent
Intensify 1 0 4 X 4
intention
