intend

verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

intended; intending; intends

transitive verb

1

a

: to have in mind as a purpose or goal : plan

b

: to design for a specified use or future

2

a

: signify, mean

b

: to refer to

3

: to direct the mind on

4

archaic : to proceed on (a course)

intransitive verb

archaic : set out, start

intender noun

Synonyms of intend

• plan
• mean
• hope
• contemplate
• aim
• wish
• try
• go

Examples of intend in a Sentence

I didn't intend any disrespect.

We intended that she come with us.

Recent Examples on the Web

The judge disagreed, finding Norwood did not qualify for protection under California’s anti-SLAPP law, which is intended to quickly dismiss lawsuits targeting free speech that are not likely to prevail. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 12 Aug. 2026

Hörl intended to sell the statues for about 100 euros ($114) once the exhibition was over, meaning whoever ran away with 210 mini-Mozarts has not become an overnight millionaire. — ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026

Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers may soon be outfitted with gloves that can deliver painful electric shocks intended to gain compliance from combative individuals. — Ryan J. Foley, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026

That same technology, and other materials the company is beginning to explore, is intended to reach patients later. — Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English entenden, intenden, from Anglo-French entendre, from Latin intendere to stretch out, direct, aim at, from in- + tendere to stretch — more at thin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 3

Rhymes for intend

• amend
• append
• ascend
• attend
• backend
• befriend
• boyfriend
• commend
• compend
• contend
• defend
• depend

Kids Definition

intend

verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

: to have in mind as a purpose or aim : plan

intends to travel abroad next year

Legal Definition

intend

transitive verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

: to have in one's mind as a purpose or goal

did not intend to kill her