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.
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 laws 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.
