enhance

verb

en·​hance in-ˈhan(t)s 

en-

enhanced; enhancing

transitive verb

1

: heighten, increase

especially : to increase or improve in value, quality, desirability, or attractiveness

enhanced the room with crown molding

2

obsolete : raise

enhancement

in-ˈhan(t)-smənt 

en-

noun

Did you know?

Enhance Has Latin Roots

When enhance was borrowed into English in the 13th century, it literally meant to raise something higher. That sense, though now obsolete, provides a clue about the origins of the word. Enhance, which was spelled enhauncen in Middle English, comes to us from Anglo-French enhaucer or enhauncer ("to raise"), which can be traced back to the Latin altus ("high") by way of an assumed Vulgar Latin verb inaltiare, which would have been formed by combining the prefix in- with the Latin altus. Although enhance initially applied only to physically making things higher, it developed an additional and less literal sense of "to exalt especially in rank or spirit," and quickly acquired extended figurative senses for raising the value or attractiveness of something or someone.

Synonyms

• ameliorate
• amend
• better
• enrich
• help
• improve
• meliorate
• perfect
• refine
• upgrade

Examples of enhance in a Sentence

You can enhance the flavor of the dish by using fresh herbs.

The image has been digitally enhanced to show more detail.

The company is looking to enhance its earnings potential.

Recent Examples on the Web

This will allow telcos to establish themselves as trusted partners in their business customers’ digital transformation, enhancing engagement and boosting retention while remaining profitable, innovative and resilient for years to come. —Carmen Ene, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

Perfect pairings: As an Eau de Toilette, Cherry Blossom benefits significantly from thoughtful layering to enhance its delicate nature and extend its presence throughout the day. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 22 Nov. 2024

According to a press release, Kings Island's new family-friendly entertainment is part of a $1 billion investment that Six Flags is making over the next two years to enhance the guest experience at its 42 parks. —Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 22 Nov. 2024

While enhanced security and parental controls require subscriptions, most folks can live without them. —Simon Hill, WIRED, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English enhauncen, from Anglo-French enhaucer, enhauncer, from Vulgar Latin *inaltiare, from Latin in + altus high — more at old

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!

Kids Definition

enhance

verb

en·​hance in-ˈhan(t)s 

enhanced; enhancing

: to increase or improve in value, desirability, or attractiveness

enhancement

-mənt 

noun

enhancer noun