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 Some of the entrances were destroyed by Israel in 2024, but experts say many of the structures remain intact and in use. Lauren Frayer, NPR, 12 Apr. 2026 With Clark returning from injury, their core intact and at least one new addition, Indiana is looking to finish the job. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 11 Apr. 2026 And yet this season, the same but different, with injuries and absences leaving the Heat with their standard roster intact for only eight games over these first 81. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026 The team plans to pair the physical infrastructure with peer education about why intact soil matters. Ethan Stone, Miami Herald, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • The jury award was a spur to understand a life recognizably shaped by social-media algorithms, in ways that were perhaps near-impossible to resist, as a serious injury to an entire generation.
    Jeannie Suk Gersen, New Yorker, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Even so, the contamination still matters because the entire Biscayne Aquifer system is connected.
    Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Tens of thousands fled by boat from Hue, many drowning in the attempt, and by the end of March a million refugees—soldiers, civilians, whole extended families—were clogging Route 7B, a major highway, trying to get farther south.
    Louis Menand, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Pair them with calcium-rich cheese and a whole-wheat tortilla to create a delicious grab-and-go breakfast.
    Riley Wofford, Martha Stewart, 12 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • His likeness, complete with robes and a halo, and sometimes holding an AR-15 or a box of bullets, could be found on T-shirts, prayer candles, gun magazines and other items.
    Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026
  • But Lincoln controls the whole tempo, the complete vibe of the affair with her epic vocals, effortless charm, and wonderful instincts.
    Jed Gottlieb, Boston Herald, 12 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Amalia cried after the family was loaded into a van full of other parents and young children.
    Sarah Stillman, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Lush, vibrant and full of life, California Tropicals instantly brightens any space while adding fresh, feel-good energy.
    Tory Johnson, ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Either way, this decisive energy favors clear asks and tangible action over chasing perfect conditions.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Johansson took a perfect pass from Boldy right on the doorstep to beat Kraken goalie Joey Daccord, who finished with 24 saves.
    CBS News, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The measure, which is backed by two Native American tribes, calls for a comprehensive study on the feasibility of bringing back the golden bears that festoon the state’s flag.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 8 Apr. 2026
  • The commission then took up the comprehensive plan change request for a vote, but even though Hoefs made a motion to recommend approval, the other commissioners did not second it.
    Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.

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