interlocutor

noun

in·​ter·​loc·​u·​tor ˌin-tər-ˈlä-kyə-tər 

1

: one who takes part in dialogue or conversation

2

: a man in the middle of the line in a minstrel show who questions the end men and acts as leader

Did you know?

It may not necessarily be grandiloquence to use the word interlocutor in casual speech, but if your interlocutors—that is, the people with whom you are speaking—are using it, your conversation is likely a formal one. Interlocutor is one of many English words that comes from the Latin verb loqui, “to speak,” including loquacious (“talkative”), eloquent (“capable of fluent or vivid speech”), and grandiloquence (“extravagant or pompous speech”). In interlocutor, loqui was joined to inter- forming a Latin word meaning “to speak between” or “to issue an interlocutory decree.” An interlocutory decree is a judicial decision that isn’t final, or that deals with a point other than the principal subject matter of the dispute.

Examples of interlocutor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nearly all scholars, in their acknowledgments, identify the interlocutors who inspired or challenged them. —Daniel Immerwahr, The Atlantic, 6 Sep. 2024

Some of its most beloved and arresting scenes are moments of translation between characters, as Blackthorne tries to decipher everything happening around him, his various Japanese translators declining to fully express his meaning to his interlocutors. —Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 25 Apr. 2024

Deepening schism Gallant, who has emerged as a top interlocutor for advisers to US President Joe Biden, has often stressed the need for a ceasefire deal. —Christian Edwards, CNN, 13 Aug. 2024

Even a drunk Melanie proves a formidable interlocutor, though. —Andy Andersen, Vulture, 6 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin interloqui to speak between, issue an interlocutory decree, from inter- + loqui to speak

First Known Use

1514, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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