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 Just crack an egg into the chick, and the white pours smoothly out of its beak, leaving the yolk intact and safely inside. Miles Walls, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Apr. 2025 Though the interior of the building was demolished, the Art Deco facade was and is still considered a historical landmark and remains intact. Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 6 Apr. 2025 Spencer and Cara arrive later, when Alex’s limbs are still intact, and the baby is still alive. Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 6 Apr. 2025 The Dover sole, a pricey fish that seems to be experiencing a renaissance in New York’s more high-end dining rooms, arrives traditionally dressed in capers and béarnaise, the body de-finned and de-tailed, but otherwise intact. Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • After hatching, the tiny insects live almost their entire lives in the web of a single spider, eating any weakened or recently deceased insects that have been caught by their host – all while adorned in a grisly collection of body parts.
    Elizabeth Weise, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025
  • In the wake of the accident, Renner says his entire outlook on life has shifted.
    Alex Ross, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The command center overhead stocked a whole town’s worth (450 tonnes) of equipment — including bunk beds, dry toilets, water, and other supplies — ready to be mobilized into the tunnels below by way of dolly carts.
    Jessi Jezewska Stevens, The Dial, 24 Apr. 2025
  • Packed up his whole life, sold his house, gave up his job, and was on the cusp of a new life.
    Maureen Maher, CBS News, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • All of the demolition and earthwork is complete, and the structure of the new stand is already being put into place.
    Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The case will be reviewed by Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador once the investigation is complete, CBS affiliate KBOI reported.
    CBS News, CBS News, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, the Cavaliers had their full 15-man standard roster available for Game 1.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Can Trump fire Fed Chair Powell? The Federal Reserve is charged with promoting full employment and stable prices.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This is perfect for those wanting to add a little spring fun into their life or looking to go into the season with a bang.
    Celeste Polanco, Essence, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Inside No 9 race: Is Osimhen perfect for Manchester United?
    Ali Rampling, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • All hiring and related data shall be shared with the federal government and subjected to a comprehensive audit by the federal government during the period in which reforms are being implemented, which shall be at least until the end of 2028.
    Kayla Jimenez, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Scientists with the forensic genetic genealogy lab based in Texas were able to build a comprehensive genetic profile using existing data for the then-unknown woman and ultimately found her identity.
    Audrey Conklin, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

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