intensive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a modifier that has little meaning except to intensify the meaning it modifies
    intensifier.
    • `up' in `finished up' is an intensifier
    • `honestly' in `I honestly don't know' is an intensifier
  2. adjective satellite characterized by a high degree or intensity; often used as a combining form
    • the questioning was intensive
    • intensive care
    • research-intensive
    • a labor-intensive industry
  3. adjective tending to give force or emphasis
    • an intensive adverb
  4. adjective of agriculture; intended to increase productivity of a fixed area by expending more capital and labor
    • intensive agriculture
    • intensive conditions

WordNet

In*ten"sive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. intensif. See Intense.
Definitions
  1. Stretched; admitting of intension, or increase of degree; that can be intensified. Sir M. Hale.
  2. Characterized by persistence; intent; unremitted; assiduous; intense. Obs. Sir H. Wotton.
  3. (Gram.) Serving to give force or emphasis; as, an intensive verb or preposition.
In*ten"sive noun
Definitions
  1. That which intensifies or emphasizes; an intensive verb or word.

Webster 1913