Heightened

Heightened describes a state of increased intensity, extent, or degree. It often refers to a situation where something, such as a feeling, awareness, or activity, is amplified or made more prominent. This amplification can be in terms of its strength, its impact, or its visibility. heightened implies a departure from a previous, less intense state, signifying a change or escalation. It can apply to both positive and negative experiences, such as heightened excitement or heightened anxiety. The term is versatile and can describe physical sensations, emotional states, cognitive processes, or the characteristics of events or situations. It suggests a noticeable increase beyond what is considered normal or baseline.

Heightened meaning with examples

• The discovery of the lost treasure caused a heightened sense of excitement among the archaeologists. Everyone experienced feelings they did not believe existed, which made them all feel elated. They spent their days planning how the treasure would be displayed for the world. The museum offered the archaeologists more space to work on the findings. The discovery also brought about a heightened sense of duty to protect the historical artifacts from theft or damage.
• During the crisis, there was a heightened state of alert among the security forces. They worked in shifts, while some were called in for backup. Citizens were instructed to stay off the roads and seek cover. Any sign of danger was followed by a full investigation. The use of emergency services was at an all-time high, due to the influx of injured citizens. The need for security was heightened due to the unknown threat.
• The athlete's rigorous training regimen resulted in a heightened level of physical endurance and muscle development. He could run for miles without stopping and lift the weight for twice as long. The coach felt his body was completely different, and it made training even easier. The physical changes were visible in the mirror. His cardiovascular health was heightened, meaning he could perform better in competitions.
• With the approaching deadline, there was a heightened sense of pressure in the office as everyone scrambled to finish their tasks. The deadline was a source of stress for everyone, but it also motivated them. They worked through the night, completing their work. The stress seemed to bring them together and improved their work. The intensity of the atmosphere was heightened because the deadline was looming, increasing tension and urgency.
• The author used vivid descriptions to create a heightened sense of suspense in the novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. He took readers to a different world where they experienced the emotions. Readers could feel what the protagonist felt and followed along. The writing created a heightened awareness of the danger lurking. The descriptions captivated readers and heightened their emotional engagement with the story.