Definition of intercalatenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb intercalate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of intercalate are insert, insinuate, interject, interpolate, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

When might insert be a better fit than intercalate?

While the synonyms insert and intercalate are close in meaning, insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

In what contexts can insinuate take the place of intercalate?

Although the words insinuate and intercalate have much in common, insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.

insinuated himself into the group

When would interject be a good substitute for intercalate?

The meanings of interject and intercalate largely overlap; however, interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.

interjected a question

When can interpolate be used instead of intercalate?

The words interpolate and intercalate can be used in similar contexts, but interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

When is it sensible to use interpose instead of intercalate?

The words interpose and intercalate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When could introduce be used to replace intercalate?

While in some cases nearly identical to intercalate, 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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for intercalate
Verb
  • Oulonger 12-Pack In-Ground Solar Pathway Lights These solar lawn lights also have a stake, and can be easily inserted into the ground so that the actual light is level with the lawn surface.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Feb. 2026
  • The rookie, who turned 20 last week, is enjoying an excellent season and has at least inserted his name into the Calder Trophy finalist conversation alongside Matthew Schaefer, the New York Islanders’ fantastic 18-year-old defenseman.
    Eric Stephens, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Takaichi had earlier laid out a record $783 billion budget for the next fiscal year starting April 1, on top of a $135 billion stimulus package introduced last year to help households with rising living costs.
    CNBC.com staff, CNBC, 8 Feb. 2026
  • But the irony is, Roman numerals were actually introduced to make things easier to understand.
    The Athletic NFL Staff, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Intercalate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intercalate. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on intercalate

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