interceptor

American  

[in-ter-sep-ter] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛp tər /

Or intercepter

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.

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interceptor British  

/ ˌɪntəˈsɛptə /

noun

1. a person or thing that intercepts

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

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Etymology

Origin of interceptor

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

Example Sentences

Alongside jamming, Ukraine has also developed cheap interceptor drones built specially to destroy other craft mid-air.

From Barron's

The U.S. over the past month has prepositioned its most advanced Thaad and Patriot interceptors to protect American assets and allies in the region.

From The Wall Street Journal

Congress hasn’t officially been notified of new arms sales, but a congressional aide said it had been expected to include Patriot antimissile interceptors and other weapons.

From The Wall Street Journal

PC Matt Murrant is part of the interceptors team who've been taking part in operations to pursue the thieves, but said officers faced a number of challenges.

From BBC

Near the southern front, pilots from the 18th brigade were getting ready to launch their interceptor drones.

From Barron's