intend

verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

intended; intending; intends

transitive verb

1

a

: to have in mind as a purpose or goal : plan

b

: to design for a specified use or future

2

a

: signify, mean

b

: to refer to

3

: to direct the mind on

4

archaic : to proceed on (a course)

intransitive verb

archaic : set out, start

intender noun

Synonyms of intend

• plan
• mean
• hope
• contemplate
• aim
• wish
• try
• go

Examples of intend in a Sentence

I didn't intend any disrespect.

We intended that she come with us.

Recent Examples on the Web

Rhaena is initially engaged to Lucerys until he is killed by Aemond and Vhagar — the dragon Aemond stole — which was initially intended for Rhaena. —Skyler Trepel, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026

This, of course, is the same standard that is applied on a motion for summary judgment ― exactly as the UPEPA intends. —Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026

The program is intended to keep training infrastructure aligned with the operational evolution of the fleet, ensuring that crews and technicians can train on systems that mirror real-world conditions. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 21 June 2026

Joumaa, a Lebanese journalist, first met Khalil intending to do a story on her. —Jane Arraf, NPR, 21 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English entenden, intenden, from Anglo-French entendre, from Latin intendere to stretch out, direct, aim at, from in- + tendere to stretch — more at thin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 3

Rhymes for intend

• amend
• append
• ascend
• attend
• backend
• befriend
• boyfriend
• commend
• compend
• contend
• defend
• depend

Kids Definition

intend

verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

: to have in mind as a purpose or aim : plan

intends to travel abroad next year

Legal Definition

intend

transitive verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend 

: to have in one's mind as a purpose or goal

did not intend to kill her