Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

Examples of intact in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web After several touch-and-go days in the hospital, Wilson was released, hand intact. Scott Haugen, Outdoor Life, 16 Oct. 2024 So, put the clippers or scissors down and keep reading for some trauma-free ways to remove gum while keeping hair intact. Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 16 Oct. 2024 The Sharks are keeping their forward lines and defense pairs intact from Saturday’s game, but are making a change in net as goalie Mackenzie Blackwood will start against the Stars. Curtis Pashelka, The Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2024 Cut kernels from cobs, keeping ribs of kernels intact as much as possible to yield about 2 cups. Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 14 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intact 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'intact.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near intact

Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!