verb (used without object),in·ter·fered,in·ter·fer·ing.
to come into opposition, as one thing with another, especially with the effect of hampering action or procedure (often followed by with): Constant distractions interfere with work.
to take part in the affairs of others; meddle (often followed by with or in): to interfere in another's life.
(of things) to strike against each other, or one against another, so as to hamper or hinder action; come into physical collision.
to interpose or intervene for a particular purpose.
to strike one foot or leg against another in moving, as a horse.
Sports.
to obstruct the action of an opposing player in a way barred by the rules.
Football.to run interference for a teammate carrying the ball.
Physics. to cause interference.
to clash; come in collision; be in opposition: The claims of two nations may interfere.
Law. to claim earlier invention when several patent requests for the same invention are being filed.
Verb Phrases
interfere with,Chiefly British. to molest sexually.
Origin of interfere
1520–30; inter- + -fere<Latin ferīre to strike; modeled on Middle French s'entreferir