intensified
UK: ɪnˈtɛnsɪfaɪd | US: ɪnˈtɛnsəˌfaɪd
vt. to make or become more intense
adj. made stronger or more extreme
The word "intensified" combines "intense" (from Latin intensus, meaning "stretched tight" or "extreme") with the verb-forming suffix "-ify" (from Latin -ificare, meaning "to make"). The past participle suffix "-ed" marks completed action. Originally, "intense" described physical tension, but by the 17th century, it evolved to denote emotional or situational extremity. Adding "-ify" created a verb meaning "to make extreme," with "-ed" indicating the result of that action. This reflects a logical progression from a state (intense) to an action (intensify) to its outcome (intensified).
The storm intensified overnight, causing widespread damage.
Her criticism only intensified his determination to succeed.
The colors in the painting were intensified by the artist’s use of contrast.
Political tensions have intensified since the election.
The medication intensified the side effects unexpectedly.