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

Asked to elaborate, Collins said costs have risen partly because medical providers were added to jail intake screenings two years ago, resulting in more people with serious conditions being sent to hospitals. —Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Mar. 2026

Fray conveyed that among the general public, ultraprocessed foods often displace whole foods and dominate daily intake. —Marisa McMillan, Outside, 14 Mar. 2026

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, eating balanced meals and limiting alcohol intake can also help stabilize energy and emotional regulation. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 14 Mar. 2026

And if constipation is the culprit, ramp up your daily exercise and fiber intake. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 13 Mar. 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
• 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