heighten

Heighten is a verb that means to increase or intensify in degree, extent, or feeling, or to raise something to a higher level. It is commonly used with abstract concepts such as tension, awareness, sensitivity, risk, or emotions, and less often with physical dimensions.

Etymology: Heighten is formed from the noun height plus the suffix -en. It entered English in the Early Modern period and has since served as a general verb for making something more pronounced or evident.

Usage: Heighten can be transitive (heighten something) or intransitive (the tension heightens). It often appears in formal or stylistic contexts. It is more precise than "increase" when referring to perceptual or psychological intensification, and it can be substituted with "intensify" or "amplify" depending on nuance.

Examples: "The film's final scene heightens the suspense." "Heightened awareness of climate change prompted policy action." "New regulations heighten concerns about civil liberties." Note: When referring to physical height, one would say "increase height" rather than heighten a person’s height.

See also: Related terms include increase, intensify, escalate, amplify, raise, and augment.