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

For those in Palm Beach County, Alpert JFS also operates its own Community Access Life Line (CALL), at 561-684-1991 for information, intake and referral services. — Courtney Marx, Sun Sentinel, 20 Sep. 2026

Propulsion presents another major hurdle, with researchers involved in the project highlighting the engine core, air intake, and exhaust system as key areas requiring further development. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 20 Sep. 2026

Deep laughter opens up the chest, boosts oxygen intake and stimulates circulation. — Don Riddell, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2026

Across the trials, higher whole grain intake was linked to improvements in a range of cardiovascular risk factors. — Lauren Manaker Ms, HEALTH, 18 Sep. 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