online medical dictionary | definition of intercept

1. To take or seize by the way, or before arrival at the destined place; to cause to stop on the passage; as, to intercept a letter; a telegram will intercept him at Paris. "God will shortly intercept your breath." (Joye)

2. To obstruct or interrupt the progress of; to stop; to hinder or oppose; as, to intercept the current of a river. "Who intercepts me in my expedition?" (Shak) "We must meet first, and intercept his course." (Dryden)

3. To interrupt communication with, or progress toward; to cut off, as the destination; to blockade. "While storms vindictive intercept the shore." (Pope)

4. <mathematics> To include between; as, that part of the ine which is intercepted between the points A and B.

Synonyms: To cut off, stop, catch, seize, obstruct.

Origin: L. Interceptus, p. P. Of intercipere to intercept; inter between + capere to take, seize: cf. F. Intercepter. See Capable.

<mathematics> A part cut off or intercepted, as a portion of a line included between two points, or cut off two straight lines or curves.

(01 Mar 1998)