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.

More than 15 U.S. warships are positioned to intercept vessels, according to a senior U.S. official.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

Neutralization closes the loop: electronic jamming, kinetic interceptors, directed-energy lasers and, increasingly, autonomous counterdrones that intercept targets without human intervention.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Other bullet-based weapons, which can be mounted on trucks, have proven a cheap and effective way to intercept drones in Ukraine.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

The UK is locked in last-minute talks with France over the renewal of a deal to pay for beach patrols to intercept small boats in the English Channel.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

"And the intercept has to be within two hundred and fourteen meters," Beck said.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

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