interlocutory

interlocutory (not comparable)

1. Of or pertaining to dialogue or conversation.
   • 1821, Sir Walter Scott, Kenilworth, ch. 17:

     [A]s he passed through the crowded anterooms . . . never did Leicester return the general greeting with such ready and condescending courtesy. . . . For all the favourite Earl had a bow and smile at least, and often a kind word. . . . A few of Leicester's interlocutory sentences ran as follows:— "Poynings, good morrow; and how does your wife and fair daughter? . . ."

   • 1988, Armand White, "Arsenio Hall more relaxed in comedy with friend Eddy Murphy," Pittsburgh Press, 3 July, p. B8 (retrieved 2 Nov. 2010):

     The 13-week stint Hall did on Fox Broadcasting's "The Late Show" last fall proved the impact of his interlocutory style.

2. Interjected into something spoken.
3. (law) Expressed during a legal action that awaits final decision.
4. (law) Of or pertaining to legal action that is temporary or provisional.

• interlocution

interlocutory (plural interlocutories)

1. (rare) A person engaged in a conversation, an interlocutor.
   • 1905, George Bernard Shaw, Major Barbara, Act I:

     Lady Britomart is . . . well mannered and yet appallingly outspoken and indifferent to the opinion of her interlocutory.

2. Interpolated discussion or dialogue.