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

The bright orange-and-red water spouts off the cliff with the visual intensity of a raging forest fire. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 15 Nov. 2024

High intensity activities mean fit and brightness are super important. —Ashley Thess, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024

The state issues deficits to producers of higher intensity fuels such as gasoline and diesel. —Russ Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024

Each drink tells its own story, mixing bold flavors that match the intensity of the evening. —Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 5 Nov. 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