Langimage
English

intercept

|in-ter-cept|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌɪntərˈsɛpt/

🇬🇧

/ˌɪntəˈsɛpt/

stop before reaching

Etymology
Etymology Information

'intercept' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'intercipere,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'capere' meant 'to take.'

Historical Evolution

'intercipere' transformed into the Old French word 'intercepter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'intercept' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to take between,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to stop or seize something in transit.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an act of intercepting something.

The intercept of the enemy's communication was crucial.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to stop, seize, or interrupt the progress or course of something.

The police managed to intercept the smuggled goods.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45