intersect

verb

in·​ter·​sect ˌin-tər-ˈsekt How to pronounce intersect (audio)
intersected; intersecting; intersects

transitive verb

: to pierce or divide by passing through or across : cross
a comet intersecting earth's orbit
one line intersects another

intransitive verb

1
: to meet and cross at a point
lines intersecting at right angles
2
: to share a common area : overlap
where morality and self-interest intersect

Examples of intersect in a Sentence

A dry stream bed intersects the trail in several places. Line A intersects with line B. The two roads intersect at the edge of town.
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.
Pulp Fiction, about two hitmen — portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta — and how their exploits intersect with the lives of a cast of characters existing in the criminal underworld of Los Angeles, also stars Bruce Willis, Tim Roth, Christopher Walken and Harvey Keitel. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 20 July 2025 The public scrutiny and Astronomer's swift response reflects increasing demand for accountability among top executives, particularly when personal conduct intersects with workplace dynamics. Hannah Parry joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025 The parallel rulings mark a curious convergence for two actors whose careers once intersected in the halls of Hogwarts, and who now find themselves off the road at the same time. Olivia Kemp, CNN Money, 16 July 2025 That’s an example of how, even though his beat frequently intersects with geopolitics and world-shaping events, Yingst tries to stay rooted in individual stories. Andy Meek, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for intersect

Word History

Etymology

Latin intersectus, past participle of intersecare, from inter- + secare to cut — more at saw

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of intersect was in 1615

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intersect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intersect. Accessed 3 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

intersect

verb
in·​ter·​sect ˌint-ər-ˈsekt How to pronounce intersect (audio)
1
: to divide by passing through or across : cross
one line intersecting another
2
: to meet and cross at one or more points
overlapping circles intersect at two points

More from Merriam-Webster on intersect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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