interceptor

Or in·ter·cept·er

[in-ter-sep-ter]

noun

1. a person or thing that intercepts.

2. Military.,  a fighter aircraft with fast-reaction capabilities, used to identify and, if appropriate, engage other aircraft in combat.

interceptor

/ ˌɪntəˈsɛptə /

noun

1. a person or thing that intercepts

2. a fast highly manoeuvrable fighter aircraft used to intercept enemy aircraft

Word History and Origins

Origin of interceptor¹

1590–1600; < Latin, equivalent to intercep- ( intercept ) + -tor -tor ( def. )

Example Sentences

But the scale of Russia’s aerial attacks in recent months has made it difficult for Ukraine to respond, and reduced its supplies of precious air-defense interceptors.

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Originally a high-altitude interceptor built for speed and short-range climbs to reach the enemy over short distances, the MiG‑21 was quickly adapted by the IAF for close combat and ground attacks.

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Other nations are also racing ahead: Israel has a hypersonic missile, the Arrow 3, designed to be an interceptor.

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Mr Bronk said that Russia's increased stockpiles, coupled with "significant reductions" in supply of US interceptor missiles had encouraged Moscow to escalate its air campaign.

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The UK supplies between 13-15% of the components used in the jet, including ejector seats, rear fuselage, active interceptor systems, targeting lasers and weapon release cables.

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