interceptor

noun

in·​ter·​cep·​tor ˌin-tər-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce interceptor (audio)
variants or less commonly intercepter
: one that intercepts
specifically : a light high-speed fast-climbing fighter plane or missile designed for defense against raiding bombers or missiles

Examples of interceptor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the reason lies in the insufficient supply of interceptor missiles. — Alex Nitzberg, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2026 In the public unveiling, the interceptor detected and engaged target drones in real time. — Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 8 July 2026 The war in the Middle East has strained the global supply of Patriot interceptors — a shortage now felt keenly in Ukraine. — Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 All of the ballistic missiles Russia launched struck their targets, underscoring Kyiv’s shortage of Patriot interceptor missiles. — Adela Suliman, NBC news, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for interceptor

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interceptor was in 1598

Rhymes for interceptor

See All Rhymes for interceptor

Browse Nearby Words

interceptive
interceptor
intercession
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Cite this Entry

“Interceptor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interceptor. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

interceptor

noun
in·​ter·​cep·​tor ˌint-ər-ˈsep-tər How to pronounce interceptor (audio)
: one that intercepts
especially : a fast fighter plane designed for defense against bombers

More from Merriam-Webster on interceptor

Nglish: Translation of interceptor for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about interceptor

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