interception

American  

[in-ter-sep-shuhn] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛp ʃən /

noun

1. an act or instance of intercepting.

2. the state or fact of being intercepted.

3. Military.

   1. the engaging of an enemy force in an attempt to hinder or prevent it from carrying out its mission.

   2. the monitoring of enemy radio transmission to obtain information.

---

Etymology

Origin of interception

First recorded in 1590–1600, interception is from the Latin word interceptiōn- (stem of interceptiō ). See intercept, -ion

Explanation

Interception is blocking or stopping something from reaching its intended destination. Your clever interception of a note passed in math class kept your crush from learning your true feelings. While you might hear about an intelligence agency's interception of secret spy messages or your sister's interception of the family's goofy dog before he knocks your grandma down, this word is most commonly used in sports. American football is all about interceptions, moments when one player grabs hold of a ball that was thrown to the opposing team: "They played a really strong defense, with three interceptions."

Example Sentences

In Mexico, the agency focused mostly on the interception of phone calls and other spying, he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

The Electronic Communications Privacy Act’s Wiretap Act prohibits unauthorized interception of wire, oral and electronic communications.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2026

After an interception, the U.S. would likely take ships to friendly ports or a designated holding area.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

"Authorities are responding to an incident of falling debris at the Habshan gas facilities, following successful interception by air defence systems," the emirate's media office said on X.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

When Terrell throws a fourth-quarter interception, the Bellmont football team ends up finishing 2-6 for the season, so they don’t make the playoffs.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick