Weird Word: Interpolate
by Nojh on Jun.29, 2012, under Articles, Weird Words, Writing
Interpolate
Verb
- To estimate the value of a function between two points between which it is tabulated.
- During the course of processing some data, and in response to a directive in that data, to fetch data from a different source and process it in-line along with the original data.
- To introduce material to change the meaning of or falsify a text.
Used in a sentence:
- “I allege that he did not simply interpret the passage, no good citizens, he interpolated the passage!” the speaker exclaimed, igniting a series of gasps and no less than one full on hand-to-forehead faint from the standing section.
Source: Wiktionary
Commentary:
I was only familiar with the first definition of interpolate, which you may think is odd given my background as a software developer but I assure you it isn’t. Instead the third definition caught my eye as it seems like something I was taught in school, or something that school would tell me not to do, but I don’t seem to remember anyone using the word in that context.
