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Intact

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Not damaged or impaired; complete and unbroken.
2. Remaining in its original state, without alteration or destruction.
3. Preserved or untouched, especially after being subjected to an external force or situation.
4. Entire or whole, with no parts missing or harmed.

History and Origin

The word “intact” comes from the Latin intactus, meaning “untouched” or “unharmed.” It is derived from in- (meaning “not”) and tangere (meaning “to touch”), suggesting something that has not been touched or affected. The term began to be used in English around the 16th century to describe things that remained whole or undamaged after exposure to outside influences or stress. Over time, it was applied in a variety of contexts to refer to things that have not been altered, harmed, or broken.

Detailed Explanation

“Intact” is used to describe something that has remained undamaged, unchanged, or unbroken, often after an event or experience that could have caused harm or alteration. For example, a package that has survived shipping without any damage is said to be intact. The term can apply to physical objects, systems, or even concepts, indicating that they have been preserved in their original form. It suggests that whatever was expected to be unaltered, whether in terms of integrity, completeness, or function, has indeed remained unaffected. The term is widely used in various fields, including medicine, archaeology, and law, to denote preservation or non-damage.

Example Sentences

1. The book arrived intact, with no torn pages or damage to the cover.
2. Despite the storm, the house remained intact, with no structural damage.
3. The ancient artifacts were found intact, providing valuable insights into the past.
4. Her reputation remained intact after the controversy.
5. The building was damaged in the fire, but the main structure remained intact.
6. The team worked hard to keep the project intact, without any compromises to its original plan.
7. The vase fell, but miraculously, it remained intact without a single crack.
8. After years of use, the old painting was still intact and in good condition.
9. He managed to keep his composure intact during the difficult negotiations.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Unscathed – Not harmed or damaged, often used to describe things or people that have survived an event.
2. Undamaged – Not affected by any damage, remaining in its original condition.
3. Whole – Complete or entire, with no parts missing or broken.
4. Pristine – In its original, unspoiled condition, often used to describe something that is intact and unaffected.
5. Unbroken – Not fractured or split; remaining whole and undamaged.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Preserved – Kept in its original state, often for future use or study, closely related to intact.
2. Complete – Having all necessary parts or elements, suggesting something is intact.
3. Unaltered – Not changed or modified in any way, similar to intact in terms of preservation.
4. Intactness – The state of being intact, referring to the completeness or preservation of something.
5. Stable – Firm and unchanging, often used to describe things that remain intact over time or stress.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Untouched – Not affected by external forces, similar to intact in terms of preservation.
2. Intactability – The quality of being capable of remaining intact or undamaged.
3. Unimpaired – Not weakened or damaged, maintaining original condition.
4. Unchanged – Remaining the same, without alteration, closely related to intact.
5. Unblemished – Free from marks, damage, or imperfections, indicating something is intact.

Antonyms

1. Damaged
2. Broken
3. Harmed
4. Impaired
5. Shattered