What does interpolate mean?
Interpolate is a formal verb meaning to insert something between existing elements. Writers and editors use it for adding explanations, examples, comments, or narrative material into a text, often with the purpose of clarifying, expanding, or smoothing the result. In mathematics, statistics, engineering, and computer graphics, interpolate means to estimate intermediate values from known data points; for example, a program may interpolate missing measurements to create a continuous curve. The word can also carry the implication of altering a text by inserting material that was not originally present, as in “the account was interpolated.” In general contexts, “interpolated comments” is a common phrase, while “linear interpolation” names a standard mathematical technique. Although the word may sound technical, its broader figurative use is readily understood and distinguishes it from extrapolation, which projects values beyond a known range.
verbTo insert words, material, or values between other elements, especially in a text or sequence. In mathematics, it means to estimate intermediate values from known data; it can also imply altering a text by inserting material that was not originally present.
- To insert words, material, or details between existing elements.
- To alter or expand a text by inserting material, often material that was not originally part of it.
- In mathematics and related fields, to estimate intermediate values from known data points.
"The editor interpolated a brief explanation between the two sections to make the argument easier to follow."
"The historian interpolated firsthand accounts between the official records to give the narrative more immediacy."
"The software interpolates missing values between two measured points to produce a smooth curve."
Interpolate comes from a Latin word meaning “to polish by inserting,” so the modern meanings of inserting material and refining a sequence share an unexpectedly crafty origin.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interpolate come from?
The word comes from Latin interpolare, formed from inter- meaning “between” or “into” and polire, meaning “to polish.” Its early development referred to inserting or working in material between other parts, with the sense of polishing or finishing something by filling gaps. The mathematical sense developed later from the idea of finding intermediate values between known ones. English cognates include polish and polite, while interpolation and interpolative belong to the same Latin-derived family.
Related word forms
How interpolate is actually used
The word is formal in general use and technical in mathematics, statistics, engineering, and graphics. The expression “interpolate into” is common, as in “interpolate additional context into the report.” In literary or historical contexts, the word can imply that material has been inserted into a text, sometimes suggesting that the result is fabricated or doctored.
Easily confused with interpolate
Interpolation estimates values between known data points, whereas extrapolation estimates values beyond the known range.