heighten
Translation
to heighten, to intensify, to increase
Examples
The tension in the room began to heighten.
The tension in the room began to heighten.
This will heighten the risk of an accident.
This will heighten the risk of an accident.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to increase or make (sth.) more intense. This will heighten the risk of an accident.
((no object)) to become higher or more intense. The tension in the room began to heighten.
Similar Words
Synonyms: increase, intensify, amplify; Antonyms: reduce, lessen, decrease
Etymology
From the noun 'height' plus the verbal suffix '-en', which means 'to make or become'. Similar to 'widen' or 'strengthen'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as making something have more 'height' – not just physically, but in intensity or amount.