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.

The Iranian drones they intercept are arrows—cheap, plentiful, made in bulk.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

It has also used drones to intercept other drones, like Merops.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Almost 200 so-called Russian "shadow fleet" vessels have entered UK waters since the prime minister threatened to intercept them nearly seven weeks ago, BBC Verify analysis suggests.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

In April last year, Liverpool's Luis Diaz was standing offside behind James Tarkowski as the centre-back attempted to intercept a loose ball.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

In the early 1940s, the United States managed to intercept a mountain of cable telegram traffic from Soviet embassies.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau

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