In*tent" (?), a. [L. intentus, p. p. of intendere. See Intend, and cf. Intense.]
1. Closely directed; strictly attentive; bent; -- said of the mind, thoughts, etc.; as, a mind intent on self-improvement.
2. Having the mind closely directed to or bent on an object; sedulous; eager in pursuit of an object; -- formerly with to, but now with on; as, intent on business or pleasure. "Intent on mischief."
Milton.
Be intent and solicitous to take up the meaning of the speaker.
I. Watts.
© Webster 1913.
In*tent", n. [OE. entent, entente, attention, purpose, OF. entente, F. entente understanding, meaning; a participial noun, fr. F. & OF. entendre. See Intend.] The act of turning the mind toward an object; hence, a design; a purpose; intention; meaning; drift; aim.
Be thy intents wicked or charitable.
Shak.
The principal intent of Scripture is to deliver the aws of duties supernatural.
Hooker.
To all intents, and purposes, in all applications or senses; practically; really; virtually; essentially. "He was miserable to all intents and purpose."
L'Estrange.
Syn. -- Design; purpose; intention; meaning; purport; view; drift; object; end; aim; plan.
© Webster 1913. | 
