n. 1. Something that is intended; an aim or purpose. See Synonyms at intention. 2. Law The state of mind necessary for an act to constitute a crime. adj. Idiom: 1. Firmly fixed; concentrated: an intent gaze. 2. Having the attention applied; engrossed: The students, intent upon their books, did not hear me enter the room. 3. Having the mind and will focused on a specific purpose: was intent on leaving within the hour; are intent upon being recognized. for/to all intents and purposes In every practical sense; practically: To all intents and purposes the case is closed. [Middle English entent, from Old French, from Medieval Latin intentus, from Latin, an extending, from intentus, attentive to, strained, from past participle of intendere, to direct attention; see INTEND.] in·tently adv. in·tentness n. |
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