interaction

noun

in·​ter·​ac·​tion ˌin-tər-ˈak-shən How to pronounce interaction (audio)
: mutual or reciprocal action or influence
interactional adjective

Examples of interaction in a Sentence

she guessed from the friendly interaction that they were close to the other parents in the organization
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fishing and chumming activity brings white sharks closer to shore, increasing the likelihood of interactions between people and white sharks. Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 4 Apr. 2025 These interactions also give you an opportunity to teach your children social skills. Emily Edlynn, Parents, 4 Apr. 2025 This volatile geological region is formed by the movement and interaction of tectonic plates, especially subduction zones, where one plate is forced beneath another. Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Apr. 2025 Nathan was diagnosed with Asperger's -- part of a broader diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which can lead to difficulty with social interactions and communication skills. Audrey Karnan, ABC News, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for interaction

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of interaction was in 1832

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interaction. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

interaction

noun
in·​ter·​ac·​tion ˌint-ə-ˈrak-shən How to pronounce interaction (audio)
: the action or influence of people, groups, or things on one another
interactional
-shnəl How to pronounce interaction (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

interaction

noun
in·​ter·​ac·​tion ˌint-ə-ˈrak-shən How to pronounce interaction (audio)
: mutual or reciprocal action or influence
interaction of the heart and lungs
interactional adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on interaction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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