Definition of intactnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of intact While he was arrested and detained, Forrest Welborn emerged more intact. Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 13 Aug. 2026 Although their identities are still unknown, both their military identification tags are intact and likely will be legible upon further examination. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 13 Aug. 2026 Then, grouse broods are usually still intact, making for multiple flushes and follow-up points. Tom Huggler, Outdoor Life, 13 Aug. 2026 The skins help the slices stay intact, impart a beautiful color, and offer little noticeable texture when baked. Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • As a result of her refusal, the entire kingdom is cursed to live without love and anyone who steps foot inside it is also cursed.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Monday's meeting will be open to the entire church body, both sides said.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 15 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The whole ordeal lasted about four and a half hours from the time the guys called for help to when they were rescued.
    Charlie De Mar, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Restrictive eating and other disordered eating behaviors can start to feel very normal when your whole algorithm is feeding you back-to-back tips on how to shrink yourself.
    Miranda Roberts, The Conversation, 17 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Craig said construction of the first stage of the Jansen potash project in Saskatchewan was 84% complete.
    Tim Treadgold, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • But a complete turnover on defense, coupled with nonconference games at Georgia Tech and Northwestern, will lead to another losing season, after which both sides move in different directions.
    Stewart Mandel, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Similarly, loading up the XI for the opener away to Fulham with players who have enjoyed the benefits of a full pre-season makes sense, too.
    Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Regal Cinemas, for example, has 4DX auditoriums with multisensory enhancements that bring the film world into the real world with full-body immersion synced up with the on-screen action.
    Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Members of the search-and-rescue team who helped save the friends say the area is extremely treacherous and potentially dangerous even in daylight and perfect conditions.
    Charlie De Mar, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026
  • There is no perfect way to create player eligibility for a prospect ranking.
    Corey Pronman, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Police Chief Alex Gammelgard said the decision follows a comprehensive review of the technology and its future, as well as conversations with community members and changes in how ALPR systems are being used by government agencies.
    Lyanne Wang, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026
  • But Abbott’s data center pause offers false expectations of a comprehensive audit.
    John Kostyack, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster