interruption

[in-tuh-ruhp-shuhn]

noun

1. an act or instance of interrupting.

2. the state of being interrupted. interrupted.

3. something that interrupts.

4. cessation; intermission.

interruption

/ ˌɪntəˈrʌpʃən /

noun

1. something that interrupts, such as a comment, question, or action

2. an interval or intermission

3. the act of interrupting or the state of being interrupted

Other Word Forms

• reinterruption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of interruption¹

1350–1400; Middle English interrupcio ( u ) n < Latin interruptiōn- (stem of interruptiō ). See interrupt, -ion

Example Sentences

Since the rally began, U.S. stocks have powered higher with few interruptions.

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On the sixth green, McIlroy repeatedly had to step off the ball and go through his routine again due to noisy interruptions from the gallery.

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Allianz, a major travel-insurance company, says in one of its online tutorials that there may be as many as 28 covered reasons for trip cancellation and as many as 20 for trip interruption.

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While an overt Chinese attack would force Washington to act quickly, a more subtle interruption of Taiwan’s seaborne trade, including of fuel, would complicate decision-making in Washington.

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Many bemoan the interruption of the international break – Liverpool are currently struggling so badly they may just welcome the chance to clear their heads.

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Related Words

• blackout 
• breach 
• cutoff 
• delay 
• disruption 
• disturbance 
• hiatus 
• hitch 
• intrusion 
• layoff 
• letup 
• pause 
• rupture 
• stoppage 
• suspension