intense

in·tense

adj \in-ˈten(t)s\

Definition of INTENSE

1

a : existing in an extreme degree <the excitement was intense> <intense pain> b : having or showing a characteristic in extreme degree <intense colors>

2

: marked by or expressive of great zeal, energy, determination, or concentration <intense effort>

3

a : exhibiting strong feeling or earnestness of purpose <an intense student> b : deeply felt

— in·tense·ly adverb

— in·tense·ness noun

Examples of INTENSE

1. He shielded his eyes from the intense flash of light.
2. She has an intense dislike for her husband's friend.
3. After many years of intense study, he received his medical degree.
4. School reform is a subject of intense debate.
5. The work requires intense concentration.
6. He was an intense young man who was very determined to do well in school.

Origin of INTENSE

Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin intensus, from past participle of intendere to stretch out

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to INTENSE

Synonyms: acute, almighty, blistering, deep, dreadful, excruciating, explosive, exquisite, fearful, fearsome, ferocious, fierce, frightful, furious, ghastly, hard, heavy, heavy-duty, hellacious, intensive, keen, profound, terrible, vehement, vicious, violent

Antonyms: light, moderate, soft

Related Words: accentuated, aggravated, concentrated, deepened; emphasized, enhanced, heightened, intensified, magnified; stressed; exhaustive, thorough; harsh, rigorous, severe

Near Antonyms: feeble, weak; shallow, superficial; moderated, qualified; alleviated, eased, lightened, toned (down); abated, decreased, diminished, lessened, reduced, subdued

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with INTENSE

defense, expense, horse sense, incense, nonsense, past tense, sequence, sixth sense