intersection

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌin-tər-ˈsek-shən How to pronounce intersection (audio)
especially in sense 1 ˈin-tər-ˌsek-
Synonyms of intersectionnext
1
: a place or area where two or more things (such as streets) intersect
2
: the act or process of intersecting
3
a
: the set of elements common to two or more sets
especially : the set of points common to two geometric configurations
b
: the operation of finding the intersection of two or more sets

Illustration of intersection

Illustration of intersection
  • a intersection 3a

Synonyms of intersection

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Examples of intersection in a Sentence

The accident occurred at a busy intersection. two possible points of intersection the intersection of line A and line B
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.
Lasry has spent his career at the intersection of sports, politics, and money. — Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 7 July 2026 Another video showed more vehicles at a standstill at an intersection filled with people. — Dennis Romero, NBC news, 6 July 2026 The crash occurred at the intersection of Abrams Road and Royal Lane, police said. — Mary Ella Hastings july 7, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 July 2026 Video footage from an intersection near the scene corroborated the 911 caller’s statement, according to the court document. — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for intersection

Word History

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of intersection was in 1559

Rhymes for intersection

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Browse Nearby Words

intersecting arcade
intersection
intersectional
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

intersection

noun
in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌint-ər-ˈsek-shən How to pronounce intersection (audio)
1
: the act or process of intersecting
2
: the place or point where two or more things and especially streets intersect
a busy intersection
3
: the set of mathematical elements shared by two or more sets
especially : the set of points shared by two geometric figures

More from Merriam-Webster on intersection

Nglish: Translation of intersection for Spanish Speakers

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