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 Organizers divided the cemetery into 29 sectors, and volunteers checked every single headstone that was still intact. Dawn White, CBS News, 20 June 2026 Search for shells at the shoreline, and you'll be surprised by the amount of perfectly intact, yet tiny whelks, cockles, and olive shells. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 20 June 2026 The Huntington is back and truly better than ever with plenty of the early-day residential touches intact, including the lovely wrought iron railings on the staircases and mail slots in the hallways. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 June 2026 The design keeps the lobby’s original chandelier, ceiling moldings and traffic flow intact; only the furniture changes, along with a new lighting plan built to highlight the dome itself — the bar’s name is a direct reference to Gustave Eiffel. Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • Our entire family is devastated by this great loss.
    Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 18 June 2026
  • The company has been pursuing eliminating its entire legacy copper landline system across the state to replace it with advanced fiber optic networks.
    Steve Large, CBS News, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • Yet despite the drag on its economy, few UK business leaders or politicians advocate for reversing Brexit and rejoining the European Union, at least in part because the whole issue remains so politically divisive.
    Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 22 June 2026
  • Throughout the whole battle, that’s when fear really sets in for Jace.
    Sean T. Collins, Vulture, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • There’s a fitness center for action, a spa for pampering, and for families or groups wanting complete privacy, the exclusive-use Monwana Residence has its own chef, butler, private safari vehicle and guide team.
    Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
  • The county, which released the case files, said the documents do not present the complete picture of what happened.
    Julia Prodis Sulek, Mercury News, 21 June 2026
Adjective
  • The surest way to move the fastest, have the greatest impact and capture the most value is to vertically integrate and execute on the full value chain end-to-end.
    Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026
  • For full daily and monthly horoscopes as well as expert readings, see our full Horoscopes experience.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • The Sparks were nearly perfect in the first quarter before committing their first turnover with under five minutes to play.
    Jordan Puente, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • The presidential suite has ergonomic desks and chairs (perfect for a working vacation) and brown leather details that give a cozy feel, plus floor-to-ceiling windows with unparalleled, unobstructed views of the city.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app.
    Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 17 June 2026
  • But for users who want a more comprehensive view of their finances — including investments and long-term goals — Monarch Money offers a compelling feature set that helps justify its cost.
    Nick Perry, USA Today, 16 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

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