When enhance was borrowed into English in the 13th century, it literally meant to raise something higher. That sense, though now obsolete, provides a clue about the origins of the word. Enhance, which was spelled enhauncen in Middle English, comes to us from Anglo-Frenchenhaucer or enhauncer ("to raise"), which can be traced back to the Latin altus ("high") by way of an assumed Vulgar Latin verb inaltiare, which would have been formed by combining the prefix in- with the Latin altus. Although enhance initially applied only to physically making things higher, it developed an additional and less literal sense of "to exalt especially in rank or spirit," and quickly acquired extended figurative senses for raising the value or attractiveness of something or someone.
You can enhance the flavor of the dish by using fresh herbs.
The image has been digitally enhanced to show more detail.
The company is looking to enhance its earnings potential.
Recent Examples on the WebFrom a music factory to a dino dig, this interactive playground is filled with over 20 exhibits designed to enhance imagination, problem-solving, and motor skills.—Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2024 While much of the nightly prime-time lineup broadcasts from the East Coast, NewsNation shares its primary newsroom with WGN-TV on West Bradley Place in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, and plans to utilize its local resources to enhance convention coverage.—Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 17 Aug. 2024 Together with Chin, the family developed signature minimalist settings which spotlight the beauty of the gems themselves, like the ‘Kissing’ setting technique, designed to enhance the light passing through stones that seem to float over one another.—Kate Matthams, Forbes, 17 Aug. 2024 Enjoy sweet potatoes roasted or mashed with a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the absorption of beta-carotene.—Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Health, 17 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for enhance
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'enhance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English enhauncen, from Anglo-French enhaucer, enhauncer, from Vulgar Latin *inaltiare, from Latin in + altus high — more at old
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