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 Fishing nets, garbage bags and a VHS tape — remarkably intact — were observed during the survey. Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 13 Feb. 2026 However, Robbie’s performance keeps Cathy’s childish nature intact with many obsessive outbursts. Ellise Shafer, Variety, 13 Feb. 2026 The legal landscape is not the only change faced by those seeking to keep endangerment intact. John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 13 Feb. 2026 For the first time in over a century, historians say a new stop on the Underground Railroad has been discovered, fully intact, in New York City. Jeana Fermi, ABC News, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • In Minnesota, federal prosecutors have filed 35 cases in December and January, compared to just nine during Biden’s entire four-year term.
    Isabelle Chapman, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
  • There are 11 transfers on the roster, including the entire eight-man rotation from Tuesday night.
    Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The Eagles showed up consistently throughout the whole meet competing with other strong teams like Brookline to claim the victory.
    Hannah Hughes, Boston Herald, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Chicken thighs and rice mingle in a 9×13 with a couple cans of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, then the whole thing is tightly covered with foil.
    Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The couple—who got engaged last summer—stepped out for the 2026 Berlinale Film Festival last night; this time, looking equally loved up but embracing complete polar-opposite fashions.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2026
  • For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Groceries were originally subject to the full state sales tax.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 16 Feb. 2026
  • The International Space Station returned to full strength with Saturday’s arrival of four new astronauts to replace colleagues who bailed early because of health concerns.
    Marcia Dunn, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The Trailblazers remained perfect in the postseason by beating visiting Corona Centennial 59-54 on Wednesday in the pool play in the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs.
    Justin Vigil Zuniga, Daily News, 19 Feb. 2026
  • There’s enormous relief in letting go of the facade of perfect containment or the need to perform goodness.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Campillo and other critics call that shift a bait-and-switch, and Campillo’s proposal seeks to prevent a repeat by requiring any ballot measure that could create a new fee — or raise an existing one — to undergo a comprehensive analysis long before voters weigh in.
    David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
  • During the course of 19 negotiating sessions since September, the Guild has offered the staff union comprehensive proposals with numerous union protections and improvements to compensation and working conditions.
    Katie Campione, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

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