Definition

To insert or add something, often in a way that fills in gaps or makes something more complete.

Example

The scientist used data from previous years to interpolate the missing values in the graph.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever seen how they interpolate data in those science projects?

Yeah, it’s pretty cool how they fill in the gaps.

I didn’t realize you could interpolate like that until I saw it in action.

It really helps to understand trends better, doesn’t it?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To estimate or calculate a value within two known values, or to insert material into a text or conversation.

Example

The scientist used a method to interpolate the missing data points in the graph.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to interpolate data points in a graph?

Yeah, I did that for my statistics project last semester.

It seemed really useful to estimate values between known points.

Root Explanation

Interpolate → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "polare" (meaning to make smooth or to polish). The word describes the act of inserting or estimating values between known data points, effectively smoothing out the gaps between them.

Memory Tip

Think of inserting something 'between' ('inter-') to make it 'smooth' or 'polished' ('polare') — that's what interpolate means.

Visually Confused Words