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

Morning intake may help sustain energy throughout the day since its effects can last up to 14 hours. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 4 Dec. 2025

Incorrect low readings can lead to excessive carbohydrate intake or skipped or delayed insulin doses, Abbott said. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

To help manage your sugar and calorie intake, keep portions modest, about 4 to 8 ounces at a time. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 3 Dec. 2025

Lifestyle factors like healthy diet, limited alcohol intake and avoidance of illicit drug use and smoking can also help promote long-term brain health, according to the expert. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 2 Dec. 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