'intensify' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'intensus,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'tensus' meant 'stretched.'

'intensus' transformed into the French word 'intensifier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'intensify' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to stretch into,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to increase in degree or strength.'