Definition

Not damaged or altered; remaining whole and complete.

Example

The ancient vase was found intact after all these years.

Conversation

Did you see the way she handled that antique?

Yeah, I was surprised it stayed intact after all that excitement.

I thought for sure it would break!

Me too, but it's amazing how intact it remained.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Intact is derived from the Latin 'intactus' (meaning untouched), which is formed from 'in-' (meaning not) and 'tangere' (meaning to touch). The word 'intact' describes something that has not been touched or altered, remaining in its original state.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not touched' ('in-') and 'to touch' ('tangere') — that's why intact means it remains unchanged.

Visually Confused Words