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.
Patriot interceptors have a vertical range of about 20 kilometers (12 miles) and defend an area of about 15 to 20 kilometers around the battery, according to the Congressional Research Service. Catherine Nicholls, CNN, 22 Nov. 2024 Anduril inked a nearly $1 billion contract in 2022 with U.S. Special Operations Command for counter drones and, earlier this year, a $250 million Department of Defense contract for one of its interceptor systems. Jessica Mathews, Fortune, 20 Nov. 2024 An interceptor pipeline carries wastewater from smaller sewer lines to the treatment facility. Mason Rouser, Austin American-Statesman, 14 Nov. 2024 While existing interceptors have a conventional layout, the Sting and other new models have the aerodynamic bullet configuration seen in some of the fastest drones in the world. David Hambling, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near interceptor

Cite this Entry

“Interceptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interceptor. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

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
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