intrusion

noun

in·​tru·​sion in-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

: the act of intruding or the state of being intruded

especially : the act of wrongfully entering upon, seizing, or taking possession of the property of another

2

: the forcible entry of molten rock or magma into or between other rock formations

also : the intruded magma

Examples of intrusion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

About 70% of utilities inspected by federal officials over the last year violated standards meant to prevent breaches or other intrusions, the agency said. —Michael Phillis, Fortune, 21 May 2024

The $700 million project had faced multiple obstacles, including litigation, the intrusion of a pandemic and challenges getting financing. —Lori Weisberg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin intrusion-, intrusio, from Latin intrudere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing intrusion

• anti-intrusion

Kids Definition

intrusion

noun

in·​tru·​sion in-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

: the act of intruding : the state of being intruded

2

: the entry by force of melted rock into or between other rock formations

Legal Definition

intrusion

noun

in·​tru·​sion in-ˈtrü-zhən 

1

a

: the entry at common law of a stranger after a particular estate of freehold is determined before the person who holds it in remainder or reversion has taken possession

b

: the act of wrongfully entering upon, seizing, or taking possession of the property of another

2

: a trespassing on or encroachment upon something (as a right)

the Fourth Amendment demands that the showing of justification match the degree of intrusion

—Berger v. New York, 388 U.S. 41 (1968)