heighten

verb

height·​en ˈhī-tᵊn 

heightened; heightening ˈhī-tᵊn-iŋ 

ˈhīt-niŋ

transitive verb

1

a

: to increase the amount or degree of : augment

b

: to make brighter or more intense : deepen

c

: to bring out more strongly : point up

d

: to make more acute : sharpen

2

a

: to raise high or higher : elevate

b

: to raise above the ordinary or trite

3

obsolete : elate

intransitive verb

1

archaic : grow, rise

2

a

: to become great or greater in amount, degree, or extent

b

: to become brighter or more intense

Synonyms

• accentuate
• amp (up)
• amplify
• beef (up)
• boost
• consolidate
• deepen
• enhance
• intensify
• magnify
• redouble
• step up
• strengthen

Examples of heighten in a Sentence

The plan will only heighten tensions between the two groups.

This tragedy has heightened our awareness of the need for improved safety measures.

Tensions between the two groups have heightened.

Recent Examples on the Web

Bitcoin’s limited supply and its emerging role as a digital store of value could heighten the urgency for nations to act quickly. —Leeor Shimron, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Characterization is heightened when a series is able to key in on clothing that makes sense for a cast. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 22 Dec. 2024

More broadly, the absence of a clear time frame for elections and a wider political transition will heighten uncertainty and, over time, could risk further unrest. —Michael Kugelman, NPR, 21 Dec. 2024

The Line 6 oil spill has heightened concerns about Enbridge's controversial Line 5 reroute project in northern Wisconsin near the shores of Lake Superior. —Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Kids Definition

heighten

verb

height·​en ˈhīt-ᵊn 

heightened; heightening ˈhīt-niŋ 

-ᵊn-iŋ

1

: to make or become brighter or greater

heightened the citizens' awareness

2

: to raise high or higher : elevate