Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913
Intent
In·tent′ (ĭn·tĕnt′), 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.