run interference

Idioms and Phrases

Handle problems or help clear the way for another, as in The press secretary runs interference for the governor . This term comes from football, where it refers to the blocking of defensive players by offensive players to let the ball carrier advance. Its figurative use dates from the mid-1900s.

Related Words

• accelerate
• assist
• facilitate
• hasten
• promote
• quicken
• speed
• urge