Heighten

To heighten means to increase, intensify, or make something more extreme in degree, intensity, or effect. It often refers to an elevation in feelings, states, or situations. This can apply to physical things, like raising an object, but more commonly describes an increase in abstract concepts such as emotions, awareness, or danger. The word implies a noticeable change from a previous, less intense state. The process of heightening suggests an upward shift or a magnification of existing qualities.

Heighten meaning with examples

• The approaching storm began to heighten the tension in the small town; dark clouds gathered, the wind picked up speed, and the people began to worry about the potential destruction that the tempest might bring. Their anxiety was now obvious.
• The director used dramatic lighting and sound effects to heighten the suspense during the crucial scene, making the audience sit on the edge of their seats as the protagonist faced an unknown threat; every creak made the tension palpable.
• The new marketing campaign aimed to heighten brand awareness by using catchy slogans and colorful visuals that would be memorable to potential customers, thus improving sales and recognition.
• With each passing day, the severity of the environmental crisis began to heighten, as rising temperatures, melting ice caps and intense storms demonstrated the rapid effects of climate change on the planet.