intake

noun

in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk How to pronounce intake (audio)
Synonyms of intakenext
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

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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
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.
Therefore, this extreme approach is not recommended for the average person; diets should be personalized, calorie intake adjusted, and nutritional balance maintained, as Haaland's specific needs differ greatly. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 All the trappings of rage—the non-descriptive mentions of drug intake, the unspecified sadness, the shock-rock innuendos—are unshakeable. — Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 9 July 2026 Rotating two or three of these across a week keeps protein intake steady without repeating the same source. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 9, Sacbee.com, 9 July 2026 Most people consume too much sodium through their diet, so an electrolyte powder might contribute to excessive sodium intake. — Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for intake

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intake was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing intake

Rhymes for intake

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Browse Nearby Words

intagliotype
intake
intake manifold
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Cite this Entry

“Intake.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intake. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

intake

noun
in·​take ˈin-ˌtāk How to pronounce intake (audio)
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 How to pronounce intake (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on intake

Nglish: Translation of intake for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about intake

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