Heightening: meaning, definitions and examples

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heightening

 

[ ˈhaɪtənɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

increasing level

Heightening refers to the act of making something taller, more intense, or more significant. It is often used to describe an increase in stature or intensity, whether in physical dimensions, emotional states, or experiences. This term can apply to various situations, such as heightening the sound of music, elevating anxiety levels, or enhancing a design's features. The process of heightening can involve both physical and abstract aspects.

Synonyms

elevating, enhancing, increasing, intensifying

Examples of usage

  • The new regulations focused on heightening safety standards in the workplace.
  • She felt a heightening of emotions when she saw her childhood home again.
  • The artist aimed at heightening the contrast in her paintings.
  • The climbers struggled with the heightening challenges of the mountain.

Translations

Translations of the word "heightening" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aumento

🇮🇳 उच्चता बढ़ाना

🇩🇪 Erhöhung

🇮🇩 peningkatan

🇺🇦 підвищення

🇵🇱 wzrost

🇯🇵 高めること

🇫🇷 augmentation

🇪🇸 aumento

🇹🇷 artma

🇰🇷 높이기

🇸🇦 زيادة

🇨🇿 zvýšení

🇸🇰 zvýšenie

🇨🇳 提高

🇸🇮 povečanje

🇮🇸 aukning

🇰🇿 көтерілу

🇬🇪 მაღლება

🇦🇿 artım

🇲🇽 aumento

Etymology

The term 'heightening' originates from the Middle English word 'hehten', which is derived from the Old English 'hīhþian', meaning to raise or elevate. The prefix 'height-' is related to 'high', reflecting the upward dimension or increase in size or intensity. Over time, the word evolved to encompass not just physical elevation but also metaphorical applications, such as heightening emotions or experiences. This broadening of meaning reflects the versatility of the concept in various contexts, showcasing the dynamic nature of language and its adaptability to new ideas and usages.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,153, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.