heighten

Word parts

height + -en

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈhaɪ̯.tən/ or [ˈhaɪ̯tn̩] or [ˈhaɪ̯ʔn̩]

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Verb

Plain form heighten

Third-person singular heightens

Past tense heightened

Past participle heightened

Present participle heightening

1. (transitive & intransitive) If a sense, awareness, or risk heightens, it increases or becomes stronger.
   • Synonym: raise
   • Antonym: lower

   The music heightened the tension in the film.

   Security was heightened before the meeting.

   Her heart beat faster as the drama heightened.

Related words

• height
• high