interpose
UK[ˌɪntəˈpəʊz]US[ˌɪntərˈpoʊz]
v
to place or insert between one thing and another
v
to interrupt a conversation with a comment or remark
v
to exercise or advance authority or influence, especially to intervene between parties
Morpheme Breakdown
inter
pose
inter
between
pose
to place
Etymology
the word 'interpose' is a direct borrowing from middle french 'interposer', itself formed from latin elements. the prefix 'inter-' is a common latin preposition meaning 'between' or 'among'. the core verb 'pōnere', meaning 'to place or set', is a prolific latin root, giving rise to numerous english words like 'position', 'compose', and 'deposit'. the literal, ancient sense of 'placing between' remains transparent in the modern english verb. over time, this physical meaning broadened to include abstract interventions, such as inserting oneself into a conversation or a dispute, where something (a comment, authority) is figuratively placed between other entities.
Analysis
Structure: inter (between) + pose (to place)
- inter: from latin 'inter', meaning 'between, among'. a prefix indicating location or relationship.
- pose: from latin 'pōnere', meaning 'to place, put'. a verb-forming root.
Examples
she quickly interposed her hand between the child and the hot surface.
"that's not entirely accurate," he interposed during the heated debate.
the un decided to interpose a peacekeeping force between the warring factions.