What does intersect mean?
Intersect means to meet, cross, or overlap. It is used for physical lines or routes that meet at a point, as well as for ideas, groups, or mathematical sets that share something in common. For example, two roads may intersect at a junction, while two lines of enquiry may intersect in a shared concern. The word is especially common in mathematics, geometry, and set theory, where intersecting lines or sets have at least one point or element in common. In ordinary writing, it often conveys the meeting or crossing of two paths, whether literal or figurative. Because it can describe both a physical crossing and a conceptual overlap, it is useful whenever two distinct things come together. The word is generally neutral in tone, although it can suggest a striking or significant point of convergence.
verbTo meet or cross at a common point. In mathematics and related contexts, to have a common element or area.
- To meet or cross at a common point.
- To overlap or share a common element or area.
- To share a point or elements with another line, surface, set, or group.
"The two roads intersect near the old railway station."
"A new bridge will intersect the railway line just outside the town."
"The two research traditions intersect in several important areas."
From the Latin for “to cut between,” intersect originally described lines being divided by one another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intersect come from?
The English verb comes from the Latin intersecare, meaning “to cut between” or “to intersect.” It was formed from inter-, meaning “between,” and secare, meaning “to cut.” Related English words include section, bisect, and dissect, which preserve the same Latin cutting-related root.
Related word forms
How intersect is actually used
The verb is neutral in register and is common in general, technical, academic, and mathematical writing. In geometry and set theory, it specifically means to have one or more points or elements in common.
Easily confused with intersect
Intersect means to meet or cross at a common point, whereas interlace means to weave or intertwine.