Intenser

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Something that possesses a greater degree of force or strength reveals an elevated intensity in its impact or emotional power
2. An entity characterized by heightened levels of severity reflects an amplification of feelings or sensations
3. An object or experience that exhibits a higher level of strength indicates an increase in emotional or sensory intensity

Etymology: "Intenser" is simply the comparative of "intense," so its history is that of its base word. The base comes from Latin "intensus," meaning "strained" or "stretched tight," the past participle of "intendere," "to stretch out." That verb combines "in-" ("in" or "within") with "tendere," "to extend." The original picture is physical: a bowstring or cord pulled taut. Latin "intensus" reached English through Late Middle English "intens" or "intense," either borrowed from Old French "intense" or taken directly from Latin. Early senses kept the idea of strain and force, such as "ardent" or "fervent," along with "extreme" and "great." Over time the meaning moved from the tension of a stretched cord toward the sense of a feeling or quality pressed to a high degree, which is how "intense" is used today.

Synonyms: stronger, more powerful, deeper, fiercer, greater

Antonyms: weaker, lesser, milder, softer, duller