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

Desmond gives Keiran a chance to get revenge by spilling his guts about the insurgency, but Keiran’s hate for his interlocutor stands in his way. —Keith Phipps, Vulture, 22 Dec. 2024

If the interlocutors are wrong, the students will grow more confident in their current positions. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024

Ben Whishaw, shot in black and white, says his name is Arthur Rimbaud and speaks in aphorisms to some unknown interlocutor. —Alissa Wilkinson, New York Times, 29 Dec. 2024

Not to be outdone, one of Kate’s interlocutors makes her case by dragging a massive map of unclear origin across the floor to make a point. —Alison Herman, Variety, 30 Oct. 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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