intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: an opening through which fluid enters an enclosure

2

a

: a taking in

b(1)

: the amount taken in

(2)

: something (such as energy) taken in : input

Synonyms of intake

• input

Examples of intake in a Sentence

You should limit your daily intake of fats and sugars.

a larger intake of fluids

the recommended daily intakes of selected vitamins

a sudden intake of breath

Recent Examples on the Web

Lower fiber intake is particularly concerning, as fiber plays an important role in keeping cholesterol levels healthy and promoting heart health. — Yi-Jin Yu, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

Structured intake has been part of procurement software for years. — Shaz Khan, Forbes.com, 2 Oct. 2026

The secret to this quiet performance is a bottom-up airflow design that draws cool ambient air through an intake ring at the edge of the circular base and then up through the heat-generating hardware. — Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 1 Oct. 2026

While people’s protein needs will vary based on age, activity level and fitness goals, Zemer said people who regularly strength-train generally benefit from higher intake. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intake

• intake manifold

Rhymes for intake

• awake
• backache
• beefsteak
• betake
• cheesecake
• cupcake
• daybreak
• earthquake
• forsake
• gouache
• handshake
• headache

Kids Definition

intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: a place where liquid or air is taken into something (as a pump)

2

: the act of taking in

an intake of breath

3

: something taken in

inadequate food intake

Medical Definition

intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk 

1

: the act or process of taking in

intake and exhalation of gases

2

: the amount taken in

reduce fluid intake to four cups daily

—D. R. Zimmerman