intercept

/ɪntəˈsɛpt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: intercepts · intercepting · intercepted

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To stop, deflect or divert (something in progress or motion).

Verb

Examples

The police intercepted the package of stolen goods while it was in transit.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To gain possession of (the ball) in a ball game.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

An interception of a radio broadcast or a telephone call.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

An interception of a missile.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “intercept” mean?

To stop, deflect or divert (something in progress or motion).

Is “intercept” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.