heighten

[ˈhaɪtn]

heighten Definition

• 1. to increase in degree or intensity
• 2. to make something more extreme or intense

Using heighten: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "heighten" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The new evidence only served to heighten the mystery surrounding the case.

• Example

  The use of bright colors can heighten the impact of a painting.

• Example

  The tension between the two countries has been heightened by recent events.

• Example

  The smell of freshly baked bread heightened my appetite.

heighten Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for heighten

• intensify
• escalate
• amplify
• augment
• boost

Antonyms for heighten

• reduce
• decrease
• lessen

Phrases with heighten

• heighten awareness

  to make people more conscious or aware of something

  Example

  The campaign aims to heighten awareness of the dangers of smoking.

• heighten tensions

  to increase the level of conflict or hostility between two or more parties

  Example

  The president's speech only served to heighten tensions between the two countries.

• heighten the senses

  to make the senses more acute or sensitive

  Example

  The use of music can heighten the senses and create a more immersive experience.

Origins of heighten

from Middle English 'heighthen', from Old English 'heahian'

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Summary: heighten in Brief

The verb 'heighten' [ˈhaɪtn] means to increase in degree or intensity, often making something more extreme or intense. It can be used in various contexts, such as 'The new evidence only served to heighten the mystery surrounding the case.' 'Heighten' is also used in phrases like 'heighten awareness,' which means to make people more conscious or aware of something, and 'heighten the senses,' which means to make the senses more acute or sensitive.