magnifying
UK: ˈmæɡnɪfaɪɪŋ | US: ˈmæɡnəfaɪɪŋ
vt. 1. causing to appear larger (as with a lens)
vt. 2. exaggerating or intensifying the importance of something
magnify = magni<large> + fy<make>
- magni: From Latin magnus (large, great). Retains the meaning of "large" in modern usage (e.g., magnitude).
- fy: A verb-forming suffix derived from Latin -ficare (to make), seen in words like simplify (make simple) and terrify (make afraid).
Etymology Origin:
The word magnify originates from Latin magnificare (to esteem highly, make great), combining magnus (great) and -ficare (to make). Over time, its meaning narrowed to focus on visual enlargement (e.g., magnifying glasses) while retaining the figurative sense of "intensifying importance." The suffix -fy systematically transforms roots into verbs denoting causation.
She used a magnifying glass to read the tiny text.
The media tends to magnify minor issues into major scandals.
His kindness magnified her admiration for him.
The microscope magnifies the specimen 100 times.
Gossip often magnifies misunderstandings beyond reality.