n. & adj.
--n. (usu. without article) intention; a purpose (with intent to defraud; my intent to reach the top; with evil intent).
--adj.
1. (usu. foll. by on) a resolved; bent; determined (was intent on succeeding). b attentively occupied (intent on his books).
2 (esp. of a look) earnest; eager; meaningful.
Phrases and idioms:
to all intents and purposes practically; virtually.
Derivatives:
intently adv. intentness n.
Etymology: ME entent f. OF f. L intentus (as INTEND)