intersection

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌin-tər-ˈsek-shən 

especially in sense 1 ˈin-tər-ˌsek-

1

: a place or area where two or more things (such as streets) intersect

2

: the act or process of intersecting

3

a

: the set of elements common to two or more sets

especially : the set of points common to two geometric configurations

b

: the operation of finding the intersection of two or more sets

Illustration of intersection

• a intersection 3a

Synonyms of intersection

• junction
• corner
• crossroad
• crossing

Examples of intersection in a Sentence

The accident occurred at a busy intersection.

two possible points of intersection

the intersection of line A and line B

Recent Examples on the Web

Look on the undersides of leaves and branch intersections for signs of pests. — The Spruce, 8 Sep. 2026

Over the years, platforms have launched that cater to this intersection, but staying the course has proved tough. — Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2026

Some 700 people had gathered to do burnouts and doughnuts, blocking a major intersection. — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026

For Perrot, that intersection gives the house access not only to clients but to the fashion community, collectors, artists, cultural leaders and a new generation of luxury consumers. — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for intersection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• imperfection
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• introjection
• introspection

Kids Definition

intersection

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌint-ər-ˈsek-shən 

1

: the act or process of intersecting

2

: the place or point where two or more things and especially streets intersect

a busy intersection

3

: the set of mathematical elements shared by two or more sets

especially : the set of points shared by two geometric figures