rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryinterceptorCatching or blocking
noun

interceptor

in-ter-SEP-ter/ˌɪntərˈseptər/

A person or thing that catches or blocks something on its way.

The goalkeeper acts as an interceptor, catching the ball before it reaches the goal.

A goalkeeper with padded gloves catches a fast incoming ball before it reaches the goal, person acting as interceptor.
Etymology
interLatinbetween
+ceptLatinto take, catch
+orLatinone that acts

The roots express catching something in passing, while the ending names whatever performs that action. Applied to equipment or aircraft, the word identifies something designed to stop or catch a moving target.

In context

Hindustan Times1:05
Iranian missile purportedly evading several interceptor rockets fired from air defense systems trying to shoot it down. The clip claimed to feature an Iranian hypersonic missile dodging more than 10 interceptor projectiles
On Cam: Iran Hypersonic Missile Evades 10 Interceptors To Hit Target; US-Israel Air Defence Failing?

More examples

  • An interceptor aircraft approached the unidentified plane.
  • The defensive system launched an interceptor.
  • A pass interceptor can change the course of a game.

Forms

interceptor · interceptors

intercept verb — catch or stop something on its way

Similar words

defender
A defender protects generally; an interceptor catches or blocks something en route.