Definition of INTERCALATION

Choose the Right Synonym for intercalate

introduce, insert, insinuate, interpolate, intercalate, interpose, interject mean to put between or among others. introduce is a general term for bringing or placing a thing or person into a group or body already in existence. introduced a new topic into the conversation insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among. inserted a clause in the contract insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure. insinuated himself into the group interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious. interpolated her own comments into the report intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence. new chapters intercalated with the old interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay. interpose barriers to communication interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction. interjected a question

Did You Know?

Intercalate was formed from the Latin prefix inter-, meaning "between" or "among," and the Latin verb calare, meaning "to proclaim" or "to call." It was originally associated with proclaiming the addition of a day or month in a calendar. An instance of intercalation occurred in the earliest versions of the Roman calendar, which originally consisted of 304 days and 10 months and was determined by the lunar cycle. When the Romans realized that they had overlooked a two-month cycle during the winter, the king "intercalated" the months January and February. Eventually, the word's use broadened to include other kinds of insertion.

Examples of intercalate in a Sentence

between the recipes for hearty peasant dishes, the author intercalates fond reminiscences of her year in the French countryside

Recent Examples on the Web

Nine out of the 11 were what are termed DNA-intercalating agents. — Diana Gitig, Ars Technica, "Bacteria engage in chemical warfare against viruses," 5 Dec. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'intercalate.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

History and Etymology for intercalate

borrowed from Latin intercalātus, past participle of intercalāre "to insert (a day or month) into the calendar," from inter- inter- + calāre "to announce, proclaim" — more at low entry 1

Note: For the use of the verb calāre in the Roman management of the calendar see etymology and note at calends.

Learn More about intercalate