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 There are interpolated bits of backstory to explain character — Simon and Jack would be left at school over Christmas by their parents (abusive and cold, respectively). Robert Lloyd, Boston Herald, 7 May 2026 The track interpolates Ennio Morricone’s theme song from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 20 Feb. 2026 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
  • The launch materials are full of claymation selfies, custom postcards, and pets inserted into famous paintings.
    Gabriel Alin Zainescu, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026
  • Unlike conventional launches that depend on nearby naval vessels or coastal infrastructure, the new method allows crews to insert an uncrewed boat directly into contested or hard-to-reach waters.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 8 July 2026
Verb
  • As for interrupting the flow of play, Arena says the three-minute hydration breaks FIFA has introduced each half — ostensibly for player welfare, but in practice to give the TV networks additional commercial breaks — have been more disruptive.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2026
  • As the match went on, realising that his team had the upper hand in possession, Solbakken introduced technical wingers from the bench in Oscar Bobb and Andreas Schjelderup to better dictate the flow of play.
    Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 11 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Interpolate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interpolate. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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