Definition of interpolatenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb interpolate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of interpolate are insert, insinuate, intercalate, interject, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

Where would insert be a reasonable alternative to interpolate?

The synonyms insert and interpolate are sometimes interchangeable, but insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

When might insinuate be a better fit than interpolate?

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

insinuated himself into the group

When could intercalate be used to replace interpolate?

The words intercalate and interpolate can be used in similar contexts, but intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

When can interject be used instead of interpolate?

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

interjected a question

In what contexts can interpose take the place of interpolate?

While in some cases nearly identical to interpolate, interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When is it sensible to use introduce instead of interpolate?

The words introduce and interpolate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

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.
Recent Examples of interpolate Cinematic history is filled with examples, some more successful than others, of filmmakers creating dramas based on traumatic real events and interpolating raw documentary material to impart a sense of authenticity. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 14 Jan. 2026 Zoë Kravitz and mother Lisa Bonet are another example of interpolating beauty sensibilities with their own personal twists: while Kravitz leans more into a cool-girl, sleek style of glam, Bonet has long established a bohemian, gloriously natural aesthetic. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2025 Since the filter cuts out light, cameras must interpolate data coming from the sensor to fill in missing information. PC Magazine, 20 Nov. 2025 Jeremiah Fraites’ score beautifully melds with and interpolates these iconic songs. Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interpolate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for interpolate
Verb
  • Before the true ad break begins, networks like to insert a little commercial bumper.
    Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 4 June 2026
  • And men are indeed lengthening their limbs, flying to international clinics, having metal rods inserted into their bones, and then, after a brutal recovery process, relearning how to walk.
    Brady Brickner-Wood, New Yorker, 4 June 2026
Verb
  • Bryant charged Black church members in Kansas City to engage more with the community and introduce practical solutions.
    Freddrell Green, Kansas City Star, 7 June 2026
  • Last season Hustus handled more than 16,000 lobsters all while chatting animatedly with visitors from around the world—and often introducing them to their first tastes of lobster.
    Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Interpolate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interpolate. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

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