intonate

verb

in·​to·​nate ˈin-tə-ˌnāt How to pronounce intonate (audio)
-(ˌ)tō-
intonated; intonating
Synonyms of intonatenext

Examples of intonate in a Sentence

the priest then proceeded to intonate the prayer's familiar opening words
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Performing in front of dumpsters, Platt first intonated his voice in an operatic fashion. Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intonate was in 1795

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intonate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intonate. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.

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