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 Coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki said that the strike on the Taibah distribution station knocked one transformer out of service but left the wider grid intact. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026 But not everyone in Europe, however, is convinced the business will survive intact. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 2 Oct. 2026 Studying an intact oarfish is remarkably difficult because their bodies typically disintegrate into brittle segments upon death. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 1 Oct. 2026 The platforms that come through these periods intact are rarely the ones that guessed the cycle correctly. — Khalifa Aldhaheri, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • Not single pieces of treasured family heirlooms, or even a single chair — entire suites of furniture!
    — Carolyn Hax, Washington Post, 3 Oct. 2026
  • While coach Paul Maurice was unable to confirm the severity of the injury in his postgame press conference, Florida fans are especially anxious, considering an ACL tear kept Barkov out for the entire season last year.
    — Austin Perry OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • That’s very much present in both our opening and closing night selections, but also across the whole program.
    — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026
  • This whole series has been about honoring the past without having to relive it.
    — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Cupping treatments come in detoxifying and cellulite targeting versions, and there's a complete slate of massage, sugaring, waxing, aromatherapy, and hair and makeup options.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Although Koerte believes Europe needs to develop greater AI capabilities, complete sovereignty remains a pipe dream.
    — Sam Forsdick, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The Russian strikes forcing the full or partial closure of three of Kyiv's six road bridges caused traffic logjams and appeared to be a new tactic in its campaign to torment the city's residents.
    — HANNA ARHIROVA, Arkansas Online, 3 Oct. 2026
  • The Russian strikes forcing the full or partial closure of three of Kyiv’s six road bridges caused traffic logjams and appeared to be a new tactic in its campaign to torment the city’s residents.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The outdoor second-floor deck is perfect for taking a break between museums—there's a table with complimentary coffee, fresh fruit, water, and seltzer available all day.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Hotels, as well as airports, are perfect places to test this technology because their electricity usage follows quite predictable patterns.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • By comparison, human advisors can build a comprehensive financial plan — including investing, taxes, insurance, retirement planning, estate planning and more — based on your specific goals.
    — Kate Dore, CFP®, EA,Kelli Grant, CFP®, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Months later, Straker delivered a comprehensive menu—and when the doors opened, Casa Cruz became London’s hottest restaurant.
    — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 7 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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