heightened
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhaɪtənd/
KK: /haɪtənd/
adjective
Definition
Increased in strength or level; made more intense or serious.
Example
The heightened emotions during the ceremony made it very memorable.
Conversation
I noticed my anxiety has been heightened lately with all the exams coming up.
Yeah, it's totally understandable; this time of year can be really stressful.
Exactly! I need to find a way to calm down and manage this heightened stress level.
Have you thought about trying some meditation or deep breathing exercises?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
elevated
intensified
amplified
Antonyms
diminished
reduced
lowered
verb
Definition
To make something greater or more intense, often referring to feelings, situations, or conditions.
Example
The new evidence heightened the tension in the room.
Tense Forms
Past: heightened
Past Participle: heightened
Conversation
I really enjoyed that concert last night.
Me too! The energy heightened as the band played their best songs.
I felt it too; it was such a great atmosphere.
Root Explanation
Heightened is formed from "height" (from Old English "hēah", meaning high) and the suffix "-en" (meaning to make or become). The word "heightened" means to make something higher or more intense.
Memory Tip
Think of making something 'high' ('height') and then adding 'to make' ('-en') — that's why heightened means to make something more intense or elevated.
Visually Confused Words
unheightened
enlightened
reheighten
frightened