intrude

verb

in·​trude in-ˈtrüd 

intruded; intruding

intransitive verb

1

: to thrust oneself in without invitation, permission, or welcome

2

: to enter as a geologic intrusion

transitive verb

1

: to thrust or force in or upon someone or something especially without permission, welcome, or fitness

intruded himself into their lives

2

: to cause to enter as if by force

intruder noun

Synonyms

• break in
• chime in
• chip in [chiefly British]
• cut in
• interpose
• interrupt

Examples of intrude in a Sentence

Excuse me, sir. I don't mean to intrude, but you have a phone call.

Would I be intruding if I came along with you?

The plane intruded into their airspace.

Reporters constantly intruded into the couple's private life.

He didn't want to intrude upon their conversation.

Recent Examples on the Web

This can take away from the enjoyment of the holiday season and intrude on an individual's well-being. —Tor Constantino, Mba, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

This has led to escalating friction with many of China’s neighbors who believe that the country’s coast guard has intruded into their exclusive economic zones. —Dylan Butts, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2024

There is, however, a harmonic tension at the heart of the conception, as semitone dissonances pierce the texture in almost every bar—F against E, D-sharp against E, C against B. As one of these twinges is resolved, another intrudes. —Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 2 Dec. 2024

Lin said that Philippine vessels had intruded into the shoal's territorial waters, prompting lawful and professional measures from Chinese forces. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin intrudere to thrust in, from in- + trudere to thrust — more at threat

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Kids Definition

intrude

verb

in·​trude in-ˈtrüd 

intruded; intruding

1

: to bring or force in unasked

2

: to come or go in without invitation

intruder noun

Legal Definition

intrude

verb

in·​trude in-ˈtrüd 

intruded; intruding

intransitive verb

1

: to enter by intrusion

2

: encroach

a search that intrudes on a person's privacy

transitive verb

: to encroach on or upon without permission or right

intruder noun