intersperse
UK: ˌɪntəˈspɜːs | US: ˌɪntərˈspɜːrs
vt. to scatter or place among other things at intervals
vt. to diversify by introducing contrasting elements
intersperse = inter<between> + sperse<scatter>
- inter (Latin inter): Prefix meaning "between" or "among."
- sperse (Latin sparsus, past participle of spargere): Root meaning "to scatter" or "sprinkle."
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin interspersus (past participle of interspergere), combining inter- (between) and spargere (to scatter). The word evolved in English (late 16th century) to describe the act of distributing items intermittently among others, reflecting its Latin roots in spatial or conceptual dispersion.
The author intersperses humorous anecdotes throughout the serious narrative.
Wildflowers were interspersed among the grass, creating a colorful meadow.
The documentary intersperses interviews with archival footage.
She interspersed her lecture with interactive quizzes to engage students.
The chef interspersed layers of fruit and cream in the dessert.