Intensificate

Intensificate is an English verb meaning to make something more intense, strong, or extreme. In modern usage, the standard verb is intensify, and intensificate is rare. It is most often found in historical texts, literary prose, or as a stylistic archaism. When used, it conveys the same core idea as intensify and is typically transitive, taking a direct object such as a signal, effect, or atmosphere. In everyday writing, writers nearly always choose intensify instead of intensificate.

Origin and form: The word is built from the same root as intensify, ultimately tracing to Latin intensificare, “to make intense,” via historical routes that include Old French. The English suffix -ify signals a causative meaning. Because intensificate is uncommon in contemporary English, many dictionaries describe it as archaic, rare, or regional. Its appearance tends to emphasize formality, antiquity, or rhetorical effect rather than standard usage.

Usage notes: In most modern contexts, intensify suffices. Intensificate may appear in quotations from older authors or in discussions about linguistic history. When present, it typically retains the meaning of increasing degree or strength; the exact nuance depends on the surrounding text. The noun form is intensification.

See also: Intensify; Intensification; Related terms concerning amplification or elevation of intensity.