interpellation Within Louis Althusser's conception of the constitution of identity, this is the process by which agents (individuals) acquire their self-awareness as subjects, and the skills and attributes necessary for their social placement. Within the theory of discourse analysis the term refers to the ascription of such characteristics.

interpellation †pleading, intercession XVI; †interruption XVII; (after F.) interruption of the order of the day in the French Chamber XIX. — L. interpellātiō, -ōn-, f. interpellāre interrupt by speaking, f. INTER- + -pellāre thrust or direct oneself.