heighten
|height-en|
B2
/ˈhaɪtn/
increase intensity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'heighten' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'heighte,' where 'heigh' meant 'high.'
Historical Evolution
'heighte' transformed into the modern English word 'heighten' through the addition of the suffix '-en.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make high,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to increase intensity or degree.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to increase the intensity, degree, or amount of something.
The movie's suspense was heightened by the eerie music.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39