Pronunciation: [ˌɪntəkˈaləɹi] (IPA) 
The word intercalary is spelled [ɪnˈtɜːrkələri]. The first syllable is pronounced as "in" with a short "i" sound, followed by "ter" with an "er" sound, and "ca" with a short "a" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "lary" with a long "a" sound. This word refers to something inserted, added, or introduced into a calendar or time scale. It is commonly used in the fields of astronomy, biology, and history.
Intercalary is an adjective that refers to something that is inserted or added into an existing sequence or arrangement, typically to correct discrepancies in time or facilitate better organization. The term is often used in the context of calendars or chronology, where it relates to the addition of extra days, months, or years to align a system more accurately with astronomical or societal requirements.
In the Gregorian calendar, for example, an intercalary day is added every four years on February 29th to account for the Earth's orbit around the Sun being roughly 365.25 days. This adjustment ensures that the calendar year stays in sync with the time it takes for the Earth to complete one revolution. Without intercalary days, the calendar would gradually fall out of alignment with the solar year.
Furthermore, the concept of intercalary is seen in various cultural and religious calendars where an extra month is added periodically to reconcile lunar and solar cycles. This intercalation helps to maintain the accuracy of religious observances or seasonal festivals.
Beyond calendars, intercalary can also describe something that is inserted or added within irregular intervals or spaces. For instance, in literature, an intercalary chapter is a narrative section woven into a novel or story that provides additional context or perspectives, often distinct from the main plot.
In summary, intercalary relates to the insertion or addition of something to adjust, align, or enhance an existing sequence, whether it be in relation to timekeeping, organization, or storytelling.
Occurring between two others; noting, in a pulse tracing, an up-stroke interposed between two normal pulse beats.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Inserted in the midst of others-applied to the day added to February in leap-year.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "intercalary" originated from the Latin term "intercalārius", which is derived from the verb "intercalāre", meaning "to intercalate" or "to insert". "Intercalāre" is a combination of the prefix "inter", meaning "between", and "calāre", which means "to proclaim" or "to announce". Therefore, the word "intercalary" refers to something that is inserted or added between the regular intervals or periods.
