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verb Uncommon

intersect

ihn-tuh-SEHKT

Intersect (verb) means to cross or meet at a point, cutting across each other. Example: “The two roads intersect just outside town.”

verb
1
To cross or meet at a point, cutting across each other.
"The two roads intersect just outside town."
"Her research intersects psychology and economics."
2
Mathematics: for two sets, to share at least one common element.
"The two circles intersect at two distinct points."

How to use intersect

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo cross paths with something, or to have something in common with it.

Common pairings
roads intersect lines intersect where X and Y intersect

Word forms

intersected past tense, intersects singular

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The two roads _____ just outside town.

Etymology

From Latin intersecare, "to cut between," from inter- ("between") plus secare ("to cut").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “intersect” mean?

The word “intersect” means to cross or meet at a point, cutting across each other. In plain terms, to cross paths with something, or to have something in common with it.

How do you pronounce “intersect”?

“Intersect” is pronounced ihn-tuh-SEHKT (/ɪntɚˈsɛkt/ in IPA).

How do you use “intersect” in a sentence?

Here is “intersect” used in a sentence: “The two roads intersect just outside town.”

What part of speech is “intersect”?

“Intersect” is a verb.

Where does the word “intersect” come from?

The word “intersect” comes from Latin. From Latin intersecare, "to cut between," from inter- ("between") plus secare ("to cut").

Is “intersect” a common word?

“Intersect” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “intersect” have?

“Intersect” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to cross or meet at a point, cutting across each other.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial