intension

n. [ L. intensio: cf. F. intension. See Intend, and cf. Intention. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. A straining, stretching, or bending; the state of being strained; as, the intension of a musical string. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Increase of power or energy of any quality or thing; intenseness; fervency. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]

Sounds . . . likewise do rise and fall with the intension or remission of the wind. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Logic & Metaph.) The collective attributes, qualities, or marks that make up a complex general notion; the comprehension, content, or connotation; -- opposed to extension, extent, or sphere. [ 1913 Webster ]

This law is, that the intension of our knowledge is in the inverse ratio of its extension. Sir W. Hamilton. [ 1913 Webster ]