What does interlinear mean?
Interlinear describes material written or placed between the lines of a text. It is especially used for translations, glosses, pronunciation guides, and explanatory notes that correspond closely to the original wording. For example, an interlinear translation can show an English sentence above a translated sentence, with the translation arranged so that related ideas fall on the same line. The term is also common in linguistics and language-learning materials, where interlinear glosses clarify the meaning, grammatical structure, or pronunciation of individual words. Interlinear is precise and technical, but its literal meaning is intuitive: the information occupies the space between the lines. It is related to the verb interline, meaning to place writing between existing lines, and contrasts with marginal or end-of-page notes, which are positioned outside the main text rather than directly beneath it.
adjectiveSituated or written between the lines of text. Interlinear may describe glosses, translations, or other material placed directly beneath the corresponding words.
- Between the lines of writing, especially when referring to a gloss, translation, or explanatory text aligned with the original.
"The editor placed an interlinear translation beneath the unfamiliar passage."
"The poem is printed with interlinear notes explaining unfamiliar vocabulary."
"An interlinear version of the contract allows readers to see each original phrase beside its translation."
Interlinear is a visual instruction: it tells you that the words belong between the lines.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of interlinear
Interlinear combines the Latin prefix inter-, meaning “between,” with linear, from Latin linearis, meaning “of lines” or “lined.” The compound was formed in English to describe writing or translation arranged between the lines of another text. Its underlying vocabulary is the same lineage that gives us line, linear, and other words associated with lines and alignment.
Related word forms
How interlinear is actually used
Most common in specialist descriptions of writing, translation, and language learning. It is usually more precise than simply saying that material appears between lines, since it often implies that the material is aligned with the text it explains.