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Intersect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intersect

[หŒษชn.tษ™หˆsษ›kt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

set theory

To have a common area or element when two or more sets are compared. It is the portion that overlaps or is shared between the sets.

Synonyms

cross, meet, overlap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intersect

Use when two or more lines or paths cut across each other, usually in a mathematical, geographical, or technical context.

  • The roads intersect at a central point.
  • The graph shows where the lines intersect.
overlap

Used when one thing partially covers another, often in contexts like schedules, responsibilities, or areas of study where two aspects share common ground.

  • Their shifts overlap by two hours.
  • The two subjects overlap considerably in their themes.
cross

Appropriate when discussing the action of moving over something from one side to another, often used in everyday language or physical movement context.

  • We need to cross the river to reach the village.
  • He crossed the street when he saw his friend.
meet

Best used when referring to people, paths, or things coming together at a certain point or place, typically in a social or physical context.

  • The two friends decided to meet at the cafรฉ.
  • The trails meet at the top of the hill.

Examples of usage

  • The two circles intersect at two points.
  • The Venn diagram shows where the sets intersect.
  • Lines AB and CD intersect at point E.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

The point or points where two or more lines, curves, or surfaces meet or cross each other.

Synonyms

crossing, junction, meeting point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intersect

Use when talking about lines, paths, or roads crossing each other, usually in a geometric or formal context.

  • The two roads intersect near the park
  • The lines on the graph intersect at this point
junction

Use when referring to a place where roads or railways meet or cross each other, often in a more structural or infrastructural sense.

  • Turn left at the next junction
  • The train will stop at the junction before heading north
crossing

Use when referring to the action of moving from one side of something to another, especially in terms of road or train tracks. It often involves a pedestrian or vehicle aspect.

  • You should be careful while crossing the street
  • There's a railway crossing two miles ahead
meeting point

Use when talking about a designated place where people agree to gather. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • Let's meet at the meeting point inside the mall
  • The tour guide will wait for us at the meeting point by the fountain

Examples of usage

  • The intersection of two lines forms a point.
  • The intersection of two planes is a line.
  • The intersection of the roads is marked with a traffic sign.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In geometry, two lines are said to intersect if they meet at one point.
  • The intersection of two sets in mathematics refers to elements common to both sets.
  • Graphs often illustrate this concept, showing where lines or curves cross.

Science

  • In biology, the concept can refer to the overlapping of speciesโ€™ habitats.
  • Ecological studies often analyze how different environments intersect and affect biodiversity.
  • Physics also uses intersection to describe the points at which paths of particles meet.

Technology

  • In computer graphics, intersection algorithms determine where lines or surfaces touch or overlap.
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software uses intersect functions to analyze spatial relationships.
  • Data intersection in databases combines records based on common fields.

Cultural References

  • In literature, intersecting narratives create depth, allowing multiple points of view to enhance storytelling.
  • Art installations often represent intersecting paths, inviting viewers to reflect on connections.
  • Movies frequently use intersecting storylines to develop complex plots.

Origin of 'intersect'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'intersectus,' meaning 'to cut between.'
  • It combines 'inter-' meaning 'between' and 'sect' from 'secฤre,' which means 'to cut.'
  • The word has been used in English since the 15th century.

The word 'intersect' comes from the Latin word 'intersectus', which is the past participle of 'intersecare', meaning 'to cut between'. The term has been used in mathematics and set theory to describe the common area or point where two or more elements meet or overlap. It has been widely used in geometry, graph theory, and other mathematical fields to represent the relationship between different elements.

See also: dissect, dissection, secant, sect, sectarian, section, sections, sector.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,919, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.