interceptor

noun

in·​ter·​cep·​tor ˌin-tər-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce interceptor (audio)
variants or less commonly intercepter
: one that intercepts
specifically : a light high-speed fast-climbing fighter plane or missile designed for defense against raiding bombers or missiles

Examples of interceptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even with adequate icebreakers, the price to build and maintain mining or defensive facilities — like those envisioned in the yet-unfunded $175-billion Golden Dome missile defense network linking detectors and interceptors in space and on the ground — would be enormous. Sam McNeil, Los Angeles Times, 23 Jan. 2026 Even with adequate icebreakers, the price to build and maintain mining or defensive facilities — like those envisioned in the yet-unfunded $175 billion Golden Dome missile defense network linking detectors and interceptors in space and on the ground — would be enormous. Sam McNeil, Fortune, 23 Jan. 2026 Developed in partnership with the United States, Israel's defense system consists of a collection of interceptors of short-range rockets, shells and mortars. Terry Collins, USA Today, 22 Jan. 2026 But former defense officials argued the Pentagon has enough interceptors in the vault. Filip Timotija, The Hill, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for interceptor

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interceptor was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interceptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interceptor. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

interceptor

noun
in·​ter·​cep·​tor ˌint-ər-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce interceptor (audio)
: one that intercepts
especially : a fast fighter plane designed for defense against bombers

More from Merriam-Webster on interceptor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!