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.
The results suggest that reducing the intake of carbohydrates, particularly sugars, can help people lose weight and support their metabolic health, Klein says. — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 27 Aug. 2026 Volkswagen Brazil This model gets new LED headlights – similar to those on the Tiguan SUV that VW makes for Europe – mounted above black air intakes for an aggressive front end. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 26 Aug. 2026 Key Takeaways High-fiber candies can help boost fiber intake but should not replace fiber-rich whole foods, which provide more nutrients. — Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 26 Aug. 2026 At the supply intake area, Yeh saw a new volunteer awkwardly unpacking a package of beans layered two cans deep, wrapped in plastic. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 25 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about intake

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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