interpolate

verb

in-ˈtər-pə-ˌlāt How to pronounce interpolate (audio)
Definition of interpolatenext
as in to insert
to put among or between others interpolated a new paragraph into the online encyclopedia article

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb interpolate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of interpolate are insert, insinuate, intercalate, interject, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

Where would insert be a reasonable alternative to interpolate?

The synonyms insert and interpolate are sometimes interchangeable, but insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

When might insinuate be a better fit than interpolate?

Although the words insinuate and interpolate have much in common, insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.

insinuated himself into the group

When could intercalate be used to replace interpolate?

The words intercalate and interpolate can be used in similar contexts, but intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

When can interject be used instead of interpolate?

The meanings of interject and interpolate largely overlap; however, interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.

interjected a question

In what contexts can interpose take the place of interpolate?

While in some cases nearly identical to interpolate, interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When is it sensible to use introduce instead of interpolate?

The words introduce and interpolate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, introduce is a general term for bringing or placing a thing or person into a group or body already in existence.

introduced a new topic into the conversation

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of interpolate There are interpolated bits of backstory to explain character — Simon and Jack would be left at school over Christmas by their parents (abusive and cold, respectively). — Robert Lloyd, Boston Herald, 7 May 2026 The track interpolates Ennio Morricone’s theme song from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 20 Feb. 2026 Since the filter cuts out light, cameras must interpolate data coming from the sensor to fill in missing information. — PC Magazine, 20 Nov. 2025 Jeremiah Fraites’ score beautifully melds with and interpolates these iconic songs. — Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interpolate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for interpolate
  1. insert
  2. introduce
Verb
  • Itanare, Flores and Luis Freites Arvilla would then take turns appearing to approach the ATM, insert a card and enter a PIN, withdraw cash, and then repeat the process.
    — Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 1 July 2026
  • Grill, uncovered, turning often, until charred in spots and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of thighs and/or drumsticks registers 160°, about 5 minutes more.
    — Inés Anguiano, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026
Definition of insert
Verb
  • Instead of doubling down on a flawed system, policymakers can make gradual changes by introducing new tax categories in the existing framework and imposing taxes that correspond to the alcoholic content of that category.
    — Adam Hoffer, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • In its opening match, Cape Verde introduced itself with a draw against mighty Spain.
    — Tim Rohan, NBC news, 4 July 2026
Definition of introduce

Browse Nearby Words

interpenetrating
interpolate
interpolated
See all Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Interpolate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interpolate. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on interpolate

Nglish: Translation of interpolate for Spanish Speakers

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