Intervene

/ˌɪn.təˈviːn/ verb

Definition

To step into a situation to try to change what is happening, often to stop something bad or to help solve a problem.

Etymology

From Latin *intervenire* “to come between,” from *inter-* “between” and *venire* “to come.” It originally described physically coming between two things or people.

Kelly Says

Intervening is powerful because it breaks the default path of events. Many tragedies and many successes quietly hinge on whether someone decided, in one moment, to intervene or to stay silent.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.