[in.tense] adj [ME, fr. MF, fr. L intensus, fr. pp. of intendere to stretch out] (15c) 1 a: existing in an extreme degree "the excitement was ~" "~ pain" b: having or showing a characteristic in extreme degree "~ colors"
2: marked by or expressive of great zeal, energy, determination, or concentration "~ effort" 3 a: exhibiting strong feeling or earnestness of purpose "an ~ student" b: deeply felt -- in.tense.ly adv -- in.tense.ness n