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

• 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

The researchers found a link between hair loss and a higher intake of alcohol and sugary drinks. —Brian Mastroianni, Health, 5 Sep. 2025

Listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 4 Sep. 2025

Participants filled out surveys about demographics, physical activity, fiber intake, and bathroom habits (including smartphone use). —New Atlas, 3 Sep. 2025

Equipped with a ventral air intake, the missile is believed to sustain powered hypersonic flight at Mach 10 or higher, giving it longer range and greater flexibility than boost-glide systems. —Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2025

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
• eastlake
• forsake
• 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