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noun

interloper

ihn-tuh-LOH-puh
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Interloper (noun) means someone who intrudes into a situation where they are not wanted or welcome. Example: “The locals treated the new manager as an interloper at first.”

noun
1
Someone who intrudes into a situation where they are not wanted or welcome.
"They disliked the interloper, and forced him to leave."
"The locals treated the new manager as an interloper at first."

How to use interloper

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn outsider who butts into a place, group, or situation where they don't belong.

Common pairings
treated as an interloper an unwelcome interloper
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Word forms

Plural
interlopers
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The locals treated the new manager as an _____ at first.

Etymology

From inter- plus an old word "loper" ("runner, rover"); originally used for unlicensed traders who broke in on the privileges of chartered trading companies.

Related words

Rhymes for interloper

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Frequently asked questions

What does “interloper” mean?
The word “interloper” means someone who intrudes into a situation where they are not wanted or welcome. In plain terms, an outsider who butts into a place, group, or situation where they don't belong.
How do you pronounce “interloper”?
“Interloper” is pronounced ihn-tuh-LOH-puh (/ˌɪntɚˈloʊ̯pɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “interloper” in a sentence?
Here is “interloper” used in a sentence: “The locals treated the new manager as an interloper at first.”
What part of speech is “interloper”?
“Interloper” is a noun.

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