intercept

[in-ter-sept, in-ter-sept] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛpt, ˈɪn tərˌsɛpt /

VERB

head off; interrupt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambush arrest block catch cut off deflect hijack prevent seize stop take away

STRONG

appropriate check curb hinder interlope interpose obstruct shortstop take

WEAK

cut in head off at pass make off with

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow encourage free give let go release

STRONG

aid assist help keep permit promote refuse reject

WEAK

abet forward

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.

Kuwait's military said its air defences were working to intercept missiles and drones fired towards the Gulf nation's territory.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

The system, composed of radars, control node, and missile launchers, can intercept munitions and aircraft and will integrate within the wider air defences in the region, the ministry said.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Israel's famed Iron Dome system is the third tier and was originally designed to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells.

From Barron's • Mar. 28, 2026

Without Starlink, Russia was forced to rely much more heavily on radio traffic—which, unlike communications over Starlink, Ukraine was able to intercept.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

We intercept German messages, but we can’t break the ciphers.

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

intercept

Example Sentences

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