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Definitions

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

Since then, there has been a measurable increase in "artists voluntarily choosing to interrupt their own performances," according to the 2023 European Festival Report.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“Gate agents and flight crews are doing their very best. They can’t control weather, flight delays, mechanicals, and other things that interrupt our travel.”

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

In the era of Ozempic and clean eating, the menu is kept simple; servers don’t have to interrupt diners’ conversations to offer a lengthy description.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

For that reason, he did not interrupt but nodded eagerly, encouraging her.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.