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Interspersing: meaning, definitions and examples

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interspersing

 

[ ˌɪntərˈspɜrsɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

mixing elements

Interspersing refers to the act of distributing or scattering different elements or items among one another. This can involve placing various objects or ideas at intervals within a broader context, creating a blend of different components.

Synonyms

distributing, intermingling, mixing, scattering

Examples of usage

  • The author interspersed anecdotes throughout the narrative.
  • Interspersing colors in a painting can enhance its visual appeal.
  • She interspersed laughter during the serious conversation.
  • The playlist intersperses classic hits with modern tracks.

Word origin

The term 'interspersing' comes from the Latin word 'interserere', which means 'to place between'. It evolved through Middle English and early Modern English, where it retained similar meanings related to the act of placing or scattering things among each other. The prefix 'inter-' means 'between' or 'among', while 'sperse' is derived from the Latin 'sparsus', which means 'scattered'. This linguistic evolution contributed to the current understanding of the term, emphasizing the act of mixing or distributing diverse components throughout a larger whole. Interspersing is frequently used in various contexts, from literature and arts to conversation and analysis, highlighting its versatility in describing the integration of contrasting elements.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,899, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.