intend

verb

in·​tend in-ˈtend How to pronounce intend (audio)
intended; intending; intends
Synonyms of intendnext

transitive verb

1
a
: to have in mind as a purpose or goal : plan
b
: to design for a specified use or future
2
a
b
: to refer to
3
: to direct the mind on
4
archaic : to proceed on (a course)
intender noun

Examples of intend in a Sentence

I didn't intend any disrespect. We intended that she come with us.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Officials have said the work is also intended to benefit the species by linking portions of their habitat separated by erosion. Faith Bugenhagen, Austin American Statesman, 21 Mar. 2026 Porter intends for the court to search the devices. Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 21 Mar. 2026 The organization doesn’t expect Owens to hit and pitch in the same game this year, but intends to build him toward that goal eventually. Shawn McFarland, Dallas Morning News, 21 Mar. 2026 The new Washington law restricts facial coverings for all federal, state and local law enforcement officers -- a key distinction intended to avoid claims of discrimination against federal officials. Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intend

Word History

Etymology

Middle English entenden, intenden, from Anglo-French entendre, from Latin intendere to stretch out, direct, aim at, from in- + tendere to stretch — more at thin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of intend was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Intend.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intend. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

intend

verb
in·​tend in-ˈtend How to pronounce intend (audio)
: to have in mind as a purpose or aim : plan
intends to travel abroad next year

Legal Definition

intend

transitive verb
in·​tend in-ˈtend How to pronounce intend (audio)
: to have in one's mind as a purpose or goal
did not intend to kill her

More from Merriam-Webster on intend

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