Meaning & Definition of word "Interrupt"
Interrupt
/ɪn.təˈrʌpt/
verb:
- 1. To stop the continuous progress of (an activity or process) by causing a disturbance or interruption.
- Example: He had to interrupt his presentation to answer a question from the audience.
- 2. To break the continuity of an action or event.
- Example: The loud noise from the construction site interrupted their conversation.
- 3. To break in on someone while they are speaking or doing something.
- Example: Please don't interrupt me while I'm trying to explain.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Latin interrumpere 'to break between' (inter- 'between' + rumpere 'to break').
Common Phrases and Expressions
interrupt a conversation:
To start speaking in the middle of another person's speech.
interrupt someone’s train of thought:
To disturb someone's thinking process.
interrupt the flow:
To disrupt the smooth progression of an event.
Related Words
interruption:
The act of breaking the continuity of something.
disrupt:
To disturb or interrupt the normal order or progress.
break:
To separate into pieces or interrupt the continuity.
Slang Meanings of interrupt
Meaning: Cut in
● Example Sentence: He cut in on our discussion with a loud announcement.
Meaning: Butt in
● Example Sentence: I hate it when people butt in while I'm talking.