What does interleave mean?
To interleave is to place two or more things in an alternating order, so that one item or section follows another of a different kind. A book may interleave text with illustrations, while a speaker may interleave anecdotes with analysis. The word can also describe a structural or technical arrangement: interleaved pages allow a reader to open the book at any point, and interleaved data or processing refers to handling multiple sequences in turn. The verb is precise and slightly formal, conveying deliberate alternation rather than a simple mixture. In literary and historical contexts, it often suggests that different kinds of evidence, voices, or periods have been brought together to create a composite account. Its usefulness lies in capturing a patterned alternation that is more specific than simply placing things beside one another.
To arrange or insert two or more things in an alternating order.
"She interleaved the photographs with handwritten captions."
Common in publishing, design, and formal descriptions of arranging material.
To process multiple data or processing streams in alternating portions.
"The display system interleaves input from both sensors."
Technical usage, especially in computing and signal processing.
An act or instance of arranging or processing things in an alternating order.
"The interleaving of narrative and technical detail gives the account its pace."
A page that interleaves text and images lets the reader move between reading and seeing without leaving the story behind.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of interleave
The word was formed in the 19th century from the prefix inter-, meaning “between” or “among,” and the English verb leave, in the sense of leaving spaces or placing something between other things. The prefix inter- was ultimately borrowed from Latin, where it expressed a relation between two or more objects. The development reflects a general English pattern of forming verbs with inter- to describe an action performed between, through, or among different elements.
Related word forms
How interleave is actually used
The verb is formal to technical and is especially common in publishing, information design, and computing. In everyday speech, “alternate” or “mix in” may sound more natural.
Easily confused with interleave
Interlace emphasizes the crossing or overlapping of strands or elements, whereas interleave more often emphasizes placing things alternately among one another.
Interleave is generally used for arranging elements in an alternating sequence; intertwine is more often used for physically or figuratively weaving things together.