Intercept

/ˌɪntərˈsɛpt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of intercepting; an instance of intercepting something.

His interception of the ball led to a crucial touchdown for the team.

The point at which a line, curve, or surface intersects another.

The graph shows the intercepts of the equation on the axes.

verb

To stop or seize something while it is on its way from one place to another.

The police managed to intercept the shipment of illegal drugs.

To catch (a ball or a pass) before it reaches its intended target.

The linebacker was able to intercept the quarterback's pass.

To obstruct or prevent someone from reaching a destination.

They set up a blockade to intercept any vehicles trying to enter the area.

Middle English, from Latin 'intercipere', meaning 'to seize, take between'.

intercept a message

To modify or seize a message before it reaches its intended recipient.

intercept the ball

To catch or receive a ball intended for another player.

intercept traffic

To monitor or stop the flow of vehicles temporarily.

interception

The act of intercepting something, especially in sports or communication.

interceptive

Relating to or resulting in interception.

To cut in on a conversation or action.

He totally intercepted the flow of the meeting by butting in.

To crash a party or event uninvited.

She intercepted the party without being invited.