heighten
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhaɪtən/
KK: /haɪtən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To increase in height or intensity; to become greater or more intense.
Example
The excitement in the room began to heighten as the concert approached.
Tense Forms
Past: heightened
Past Participle: heightened
Conversation
I noticed that the excitement in the crowd really started to heighten during the concert.
Yeah, you could feel the energy rising as the band played their hits.
It was amazing how the atmosphere would heighten with each song they performed.
Definitely! It made the whole experience unforgettable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rise
increase
intensify
Antonyms
decrease
diminish
lower
transitive verb
Definition
To make something higher or to increase its level or amount.
Example
The new policy is expected to heighten awareness about environmental issues.
Tense Forms
Past: heightened
Past Participle: heightened
Conversation
I think we should find a way to heighten the excitement for the party.
That's a great idea! Maybe we could add some fun games.
Exactly! Games could really heighten the energy and get everyone involved.
Root Explanation
Heighten → It is formed from "high" (from Old English "hēah", meaning tall or elevated) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "heighten" means to make something higher or to increase its elevation.
Memory Tip
Think of something becoming 'tall' ('high') — the '-en' means to make it so. This helps you remember that 'heighten' means to make something higher.
Visually Confused Words
reheighten
eighteen
retighten
relighten
enlighten
benighten
unheightened
tighten