intersection
/ˌɪntərˈsɛkʃən/
noun
Origin
Latin
intersecare — to cut asunder or between
Overview
Meaning Now
- a point or line common to lines or surfaces that intersect
- a place where two or more roads meet or cross
Literal older meaning
a cutting into or between
Language path
Latin → Middle French → English
Earliest form
intersectio
Earliest period
16th century
Journey
The term derives from Latin anatomy and geometry, where 'intersecare' described the act of dissecting or cutting something into segments. It was later adopted into mathematics to describe the intersection of sets or lines, and into urban planning to describe the confluence of roads.
Evolution
- Latin
intersecare
“to cut across”
- Late Latin
intersectio
“a cutting into”
- Middle French
intersection
“act of cutting”
- English
intersection
“the point where things cross”
Connections
Word parts
inter-
prefix
between
sect
root
to cut
-ion
suffix
state or act
Related across languages
French
intersection
Spanish
intersección
intersection
Explore next
Related to intersection
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.