intersection

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌin-tər-ˈsek-shən 

especially in sense 1 ˈin-tər-ˌsek-

1

: a place or area where two or more things (such as streets) intersect

2

: the act or process of intersecting

3

a

: the set of elements common to two or more sets

especially : the set of points common to two geometric configurations

b

: the operation of finding the intersection of two or more sets

Illustration of intersection

• a intersection 3a

Synonyms of intersection

• junction
• corner
• crossroad
• crossing

Examples of intersection in a Sentence

The accident occurred at a busy intersection.

two possible points of intersection

the intersection of line A and line B

Recent Examples on the Web

During the run of the exhibition, Maravilla will activate the commission via weekly sound baths, an essential component of his practice, which looks at the intersections between art and healing. — Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 9 Oct. 2026

Oklahoma Voice provides original, objective reporting examining the intersection of policy, impact and power. — Dara Kass, Washington Post, 9 Oct. 2026

Panama is located near the intersection of several major tectonic plates. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 9 Oct. 2026

The city purchased the former library site, at the intersection of Elk Grove Boulevard and Elk Grove Florin Road, in 2006. — Camryn Dadey, Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1559, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for intersection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• imperfection
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• introjection
• introspection

Kids Definition

intersection

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion ˌint-ər-ˈsek-shən 

1

: the act or process of intersecting

2

: the place or point where two or more things and especially streets intersect

a busy intersection

3

: the set of mathematical elements shared by two or more sets

especially : the set of points shared by two geometric figures