intercept
UK: ˌɪntəˈsept | US: ˌɪntərˈsept
vt. to stop or seize something/someone moving from one place to another
n. an act or instance of intercepting
The word "intercept" originates from Latin interceptus, the past participle of intercipere ("to seize between"). It combines inter- (meaning "between") and -cept (from capere, "to take"). The term entered Middle English via Old French intercepter, retaining its core idea of "taking/catching something in transit." This reflects a vivid spatial logic: inter- marks the action happening midway, while -cept emphasizes the act of capture.
The spy agency intercepted a coded message.
The goalkeeper intercepted the pass before it reached the striker.
Police intercepted the stolen vehicle on the highway.
The software alerts users when emails are intercepted.
Radar systems help intercept incoming missiles.