Langimage
English

interfere

|in/ter/fere|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌɪntərˈfɪr/

🇬🇧

/ˌɪntəˈfɪə/

obstructing entity

Etymology
Etymology Information

'interfere' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'interferre,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry.'

Historical Evolution

'interferre' transformed into the Old French word 'enferir,' and eventually became the modern English word 'interfere' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to carry between,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to get involved or hinder.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to get involved in a situation where you are not wanted or needed.

He tends to interfere in other people's affairs.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to prevent something from continuing or being carried out properly.

The noise interfered with my concentration.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40