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

• plan
• mean
• hope
• contemplate
• aim
• wish
• try
• go [chiefly Southern & Midland]

Examples of intend in a Sentence

I didn't intend any disrespect.

We intended that she come with us.

Recent Examples on the Web

Well, that’s what the aforementioned six-week process is intended to reveal. —Kansas City Star, 7 Oct. 2025

Initially, Wembley was not intended to be a permanent home for the national team. —Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025

Initially intended for the streets, the class has evolved to include off-road models in recent years, such as the best-selling Ford F-150 Raptor. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 7 Oct. 2025

Beginners must log at least 50 skydives or parachute jumps, and take a six-hour First Jump Course, while those wanting a deeper dive (pun intended) can opt for an intensive three-day course. —Taryn Shorr-McKee, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2025

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