‘拦截’ is a compound verb meaning 'to intercept' — to stop or block something or someone while they are in motion, often before they reach their intended destination. The character 拦 (lán) means 'to block' or 'to obstruct', while 截 (jié) means 'to cut off' or 'to halt abruptly'; together, they emphasize the act of actively intervening to prevent passage. It's commonly used in contexts involving security, transportation, communication, and wildlife management.

This word implies intentionality and control: the interceptor usually has authority or capability — such as border guards intercepting smugglers, antivirus software intercepting malware, or conservationists intercepting poachers near protected animal habitats. It’s more formal and forceful than general verbs like 阻止 (to prevent) or 挡住 (to block), and often suggests a planned, tactical action rather than passive obstruction.