Definition of: interpolate

(in·tûr′pə·lāt) v. ·lat·ed, ·lat·ing v.t.
1. To alter, as a manuscript, by the insertion of new or unauthorized matter; corrupt.
2. To insert (such matter).
3. To put (something different or irrelevant) between other things; intercalate; interpose.
4. Math. a To compute intermediate values of a quantity between a series of given values: distinguished from extrapolate. b To insert (an intermediate term or terms) in a series.
—v.i.
5. To make interpolations. [<L interpolatus, pp. of interpolare polish, form anew <interpolis refurbished, vamped up <inter- between + root of polire polish]
—in·ter′po·la′tion noun
—in·ter′po·la′tive adjective
—in·ter′po·la′tor, in·ter′po·lat′er noun