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 Only the remaining 40% who picked TCU moved on with their perfect records intact. Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 20 Mar. 2026 But its oil infrastructure was left intact. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026 In recent years, a new crop of jazz artists have crossed the pop Rubicon with their genre trappings more-or-less intact. Lily Goldberg, Pitchfork, 19 Mar. 2026 The clothing side of the business is intact. Jermont Terry, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • Because the system relies on compact lasers and chip-scale components, the entire clock can be integrated into a highly efficient, low-power module, reports SCMP.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 19 Mar. 2026
  • And of course, Steph Curry watched the entire game in street clothes.
    Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Whisk remaining ½ cup whole-milk Greek yogurt and 2 Tbsp.
    Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Mar. 2026
  • Funding for the whole department failed to advance in the Senate on Friday after Democrats declined to support a bill.
    CBS News, CBS News, 22 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Once the slingshot mission of Artemis II is complete, Artemis III will dock with a commercial spacecraft in low Earth orbit rather than landing on the moon in 2028.
    Sarah D. Wire, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026
  • To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 22 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Some questions may be adapted into full columns, and transcripts of the chats remain available after each session concludes.
    Carolyn Hax, Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Across the country, collections are popping up to help Transportation Security Administration officers who have been without full pay for more than a month due to the partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 23 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Don’t worry too much about things being perfect, either.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Ahead, 20 properties to book for your next postcard-perfect getaway.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The more complex the problems become, the greater the demands on those external resources, while those resources themselves — due to the increasing specialization of the nature of the assignments — become less available, less comprehensive, and less sufficient overall.
    Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 25 Mar. 2026
  • On the Costa Mujeres north of Cancún, longevity clinic SHA Mexico recently introduced a comprehensive young adult wellness program that starts at age 12.
    Kathryn Romeyn, HollywoodReporter, 24 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.

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