heighten
Translation
to intensify, to increase, to enhance
Examples
The suspense heightens with each scene.
The suspense heightens with each scene.
We need to heighten security at the airport.
We need to heighten security at the airport.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to make (sth.) higher or more intense. The new policy will heighten tensions.
Similar Words
Synonyms: increase, intensify, enhance; Antonyms: decrease, lessen, reduce
Etymology
From the adjective 'high' plus the verb-forming suffix '-en', literally meaning 'to make high'.
Memory Tips
Think of making something 'higher' in intensity, amount, or degree, like heightening tension.