What does interloped mean?
Interloped is the past tense of interlope, meaning to intrude into a conversation or situation without being invited. The word is often used when someone interrupts a discussion with an irrelevant or unwanted contribution, although it can also refer more broadly to becoming involved in other people's affairs. Its tone is generally disapproving because it suggests that the person has entered where they do not belong. For example, a commentator might complain that a politician “interloped in the debate” merely to deliver a partisan message. The verb comes from the less common noun interlope, meaning an intrusion or an unauthorized intervention, and the related verb describes the act of intruding. Despite its formal sound, interloped is used in ordinary political, social, and workplace discussions to describe a range of uninvited interruptions.
verbTo insert oneself into a conversation, discussion, or situation without invitation or relevance.
- To intrude into a conversation, discussion, or situation, especially by interrupting or offering an unwanted comment.
"A few latecomers interloped with their complaints as the meeting concluded."
"She interloped with a correction before the speaker had finished."
"Several local officials interloped in the debate over the new policy."
To interlope is to join in just in time to disrupt what was already under way.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interloped come from?
Interloped is the past-tense and past-participle form of interlope. The verb developed from the noun interlope, an intrusion or unauthorized intervention, and ultimately from the combination of inter- meaning 'between' or 'among' with lope meaning 'to move or run.' In modern usage, the word has become especially associated with interrupting a conversation or discussion without invitation.
Related word forms
How interloped is actually used
Usually mildly critical or disapproving. It implies entering a situation without invitation, permission, or a clear connection to the topic.