interrupt

[in-tuh-ruhpt, in-tuh-ruhpt] / ˌɪn təˈrʌpt, ˈɪn təˌrʌpt /

VERB

bother, interfere

Synonyms

STRONGEST

break break off cut off cut short delay discontinue disturb halt heckle hinder hold up impede prevent punctuate stop suspend

STRONG

arrest check crash cut defer disconnect disjoin disunite divide in infringe inject insinuate intrude obstruct separate sever shortstop stay

WEAK

barge in break in break train of thought bust in butt in chime in come between crowd in cut in on edge in get in the way horn in lay aside put in work in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist begin carry on cause continue encourage facilitate forward further give go help join mend permit promote push start support

STRONG

attach combine connect couple expedite leave leave alone link unite

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But circumstances such as unexpected job loss, healthcare issues or caregiving responsibilities can interrupt even the best-laid plans.

From MarketWatch • May 29, 2026

Those comments prompted Phillips to interrupt again and leave her seat as she shouted: "Don't ever protect me, I don't need your lot protecting me."

From BBC • May 20, 2026

He stayed mostly within his time limits and didn’t interrupt much.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Even small actions—a walk around the block, calling a friend, finishing a task—can interrupt cycles of avoidance and restore momentum.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

The little kid who used to follow me around, beg me for puzzles, interrupt me at chess tournaments with healthy snacks.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Vocabulary lists containing interrupt

Make a Break for It: Rupt

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"Raymond's Run"

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Lesson 1

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