intercalate

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to insert an extra day or month into a calendar so that it remains aligned with astronomical cycles

   Some lunisolar calendars intercalate an additional month when the seasons drift from the named months.

2. 2
   verb

   to insert a layer, period, substance, or element between others

   The geologist identified a warm interval intercalated between two colder deposits.

3. 3
   verb

   chemistry: to insert atoms, ions, or molecules between the layers of a material

   Lithium ions intercalate between the graphite layers during charging.

Borrowed from Latin intercalare, 'insert in the calendar,' from inter-, 'between,' + calare, 'proclaim.' Roman officials proclaimed inserted calendar days or months. Science broadened the verb to material placed between layers, periods, cells, or molecules.

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