intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sə-tē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme degree of strength, force, energy, or feeling

2

: the magnitude of a quantity (such as force or energy) per unit (as of area, charge, mass, or time)

3

: saturation sense 4a

Synonyms

• ardency
• ardor
• emotion
• enthusiasm
• fervency
• fervidness
• fervor
• fire
• heat
• intenseness
• passion
• passionateness
• vehemence
• violence
• warmth
• white heat

Examples of intensity in a Sentence

the intensity of the sun's rays

the intensity of the argument

The sun shone with great intensity.

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile in Madrid, Ancelotti has often criticised his side for lacking intensity this term. —Tom Sanderson, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Treatment will often reduce the intensity or the length of heartburn. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

This is Scorpio’s territory: a time of transition, intensity and transformation. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 23 Oct. 2024

Scorpio personality, traits Scorpios are marked by their intensity, Montúfar previously told USA TODAY. —Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intensity

• high-intensity interval training
• hyper-intensity

Kids Definition

intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sət-ē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme strength, force, or feeling

2

: the degree or amount of a quality or condition

the intensity of an electric field

Medical Definition

intensity

noun

in·​ten·​si·​ty in-ˈten(t)-sət-ē 

plural intensities

1

: the quality or state of being intense

especially : extreme degree of strength, force, energy, or feeling

2

: the magnitude of a quantity (as force or energy) per unit (as of surface, charge, mass, or time)

3

: saturation sense 4a