intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s 
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
intensely
adverb
intenseness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of intense in a Sentence
He shielded his eyes from the intense flash of light.
She has an intense dislike for her husband's friend.
After many years of intense study, he received his medical degree.
School reform is a subject of intense debate.
The work requires intense concentration.
He was an intense young man who was very determined to do well in school.
Recent Examples on the Web
The vote came amid a moment of intense political debate about inflation.
—
Grant Stringer, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024
The stakes have never been higher — and the pressure has never been more intense.
—The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024
There are only two episodes until the Dancing With the Stars finale, and the competition is more intense than ever after nearly every couple earned a 10 last week.
—Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
So, the next time life feels too intense, don’t overlook the small steps—embrace them.
—Shira Gill, TIME, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intense 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Grant Stringer, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024
The stakes have never been higher — and the pressure has never been more intense.
—The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024
There are only two episodes until the Dancing With the Stars finale, and the competition is more intense than ever after nearly every couple earned a 10 last week.
—Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
So, the next time life feels too intense, don’t overlook the small steps—embrace them.
—Shira Gill, TIME, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intense
Dictionary Entries Near intense
Cite this Entry
“Intense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intense. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s
1
: existing in an extreme degree
intense pain
2
: done or performed with great zeal, energy, or eagerness
intense study
3
: feeling deeply
an intense actor
intensely
adverb
intenseness
noun
Medical Definition
intense
adjective
in·tense
in-ˈten(t)s
1
a
: existing in an extreme degree
intense anxiety
b
: extremely marked or pronounced
a neurodermatitis with intense itching and burning of the skin—H. G. Armstrong
H. G. Armstrong
c
: very large or considerable
intense radiation
2
a
: feeling deeply especially by nature or temperament
b
: deeply felt
intense emotions
intensely
adverb
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share