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.

Scientists believe future treatments could target these cells to interrupt the harmful cycle known as inflammaging.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Gulls managed to interrupt the BBC's interview with the Bank of England's chief cashier, Victoria Cleland, whose signature appears on its banknotes.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

When markets price crude oil, they must account for the risk that conflict, sabotage and terrorism will interrupt these flows.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

As a police truck approached and threatened to interrupt the clean-up effort, Maria stood in the street and blocked the way, hands on her hips in a pose of defiance.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

“Because we quarreled last night. It’s a long story,” he said as I tried to interrupt.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

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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