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

Essentially, the drugs make patients feel full longer, which reduces food intake and predictably leads to weight loss. — Jessica Starr, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026

Secure ballot intake stations, also called drop boxes, are located outside each elections office and are accessible during office hours. — Ruth Abramovitz, Sun Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026

Add water-rich produce, like leafy greens, zucchini, and broccoli, to support your daily fluid intake. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 13 Aug. 2026

The emergency action began on Tuesday when tens of tons of jellyfish swept into the facility’s water intake system. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 12 Aug. 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