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 In addition to keeping his wide receiver-drafting streak intact, Morgan executed a second-round trade for the third year in a row. Joseph Person, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026 The hotel has always maintained that perfect balance between discretion, history, and hospitality; perhaps that is why its excellent reputation remained intact year after year. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026 The ratio acts as a record of the chemical environment of 3I/ATLAS' home system, having remained intact throughout the interstellar invader's long journey to the solar system. Robert Lea, Space.com, 23 Apr. 2026 The plot remains intact, tracing a friendship between Cee Cee Bloom and Bertie White — two women who move from childhood pen pals to roommates, rivals and lifelong confidantes before their soaring story ends in devastating loss. Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • After all, his entire journey to the NFL has been that way.
    Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Cost plays a role, but so do access, timing, and how the entire process is handled from start to finish.
    Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The whole team is still learning every day.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • And that’s the absurdity of this whole thing.
    NBC news, NBC news, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Gil also totaled four complete innings, five hits, three walks, zero strikeouts and a pair of two-run homers, courtesy of Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes, in his fourth start of the season.
    Gary Phillips, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • With savings up to 86 percent on complete sets and lots of cooling options for warm nights, there are some major bedding deals lurking on the site.
    Tanya Sharma, PEOPLE, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Hiddink, Di Matteo, and Benitez all benefited from having players full of character as well as the ability to turn up on showpiece occasions.
    Simon Johnson, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Taylor, who has since made a full recovery, praised the students for their actions.
    Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The breezy material is perfect for keeping cool during the day, yet dressy enough to pair with sandals and a slinky top for an evening out.
    Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Set yourself up for summer entertaining with this rearrangeable option that fits up to six people, or snag a dining table and stools that a reviewer said are perfect for al fresco meals.
    Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Interceptor drones as part of a comprehensive air defense system are now being sought by Middle East and Gulf countries amid the Iran war, according to Ukrainian officials.
    ABC News, ABC News, 28 Apr. 2026
  • With overwhelming bipartisan support, Indiana enacted one of the most comprehensive state-level national security laws in the country.
    Joe Gebbia Sr, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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