Intensive

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ɪnˈtÉ›nsɪv/

Origin

From Middle French intensif, from Medieval Latin intensivus, from intendere.

Full definition of intensive

Adjective

1. Thorough, to a great degree, with intensity.She was moved to the intensive care unit of the hospital.
• Schuster Hepaticae V|viiSecondly, I continue to base my concepts on intensive study of a limited suite of collections, rather than superficial study of every packet that comes to hand.
2. Demanding, requiring a great amount.This job is difficult because it is so labour-intensive.
3. Highly concentrated.I took a three-day intensive course in finance.
4. (obsolete) Stretched; allowing intension, or increase of degree; that can be intensified.
5. Characterized by persistence; intent; assiduous.
6. (grammar) Serving to give force or emphasis.an intensive verb or preposition

Related terms

• intense

Noun

1. (linguistics) Form of a word with a stronger or more forceful sense than the root on which the intensive is built.----