intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: an opening through which fluid enters an enclosure

2

a

: a taking in

b(1)

: the amount taken in

(2)

: something (such as energy) taken in : input

Synonyms of intake

• input

Examples of intake in a Sentence

You should limit your daily intake of fats and sugars.

a larger intake of fluids

the recommended daily intakes of selected vitamins

a sudden intake of breath

Recent Examples on the Web

Watch your caffeine intake, when drinking energy drinks that have more caffeine than coffee or tea. — Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 2 July 2026

Like most wearables, the Fitbit Charge 6 tracks your calorie intake and sleep quality. — Kelsey Fogarty, PC Magazine, 1 July 2026

Fiber intake is associated with health benefits like weight and blood sugar management. — Joy Emeh, Health, 30 June 2026

Gustin disputed those accounts, saying detainees are given headphones at intake and that attorney calls typically take place in private booths. — Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intake

• intake manifold

Rhymes for intake

• awake
• backache
• beefsteak
• betake
• cheesecake
• cupcake
• daybreak
• earthquake
• forsake
• gouache
• handshake
• headache

Kids Definition

intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: a place where liquid or air is taken into something (as a pump)

2

: the act of taking in

an intake of breath

3

: something taken in

inadequate food intake

Medical Definition

intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: the act or process of taking in

intake and exhalation of gases

2

: the amount taken in

reduce fluid intake to four cups daily

—D. R. Zimmerman