interception

noun

in·​ter·​cep·​tion ˌin-tər-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce interception (audio)
1
a
: the action of intercepting
b
: the state of being intercepted
2
: something that is intercepted
especially : an intercepted forward pass

Examples of interception 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.
Marcus Mariota threw an interception that bounced off Deebo Samuel’s hands, and Washington came up short on two fourth-down conversions. Cole Sullivan, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Oct. 2025 The loss featured sacks and fumbles and an interception and missed kicks and injuries — and that’s without mentioning the defense, who arguably had the roughest day overall. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 Oct. 2025 The Pats are 6-2, and Maye has a 15-3 touchdown-interception ratio on the year. Chris Bumbaca, USA Today, 27 Oct. 2025 Cleveland struggled again offensively in the 32-13 loss to New England in Massachusetts, as rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel threw two interceptions as well as two touchdowns in the loss that looked close until a 21-point third quarter for New England. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interception

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of interception was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Interception.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interception. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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