interregnum

American  

[in-ter-reg-nuhm] / ˌɪn tərˈrɛg nəm /

noun

plural

interregnums, interregna

1. an interval of time between the close of a sovereign's reign and the accession of their normal or legitimate successor.

2. any period during which a state has no ruler or only a temporary executive.

3. any period of freedom from the usual authority.

4. any pause or interruption in continuity.

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interregnum British  

/ ˌɪntəˈrɛɡnəm /

noun

1. an interval between two reigns, governments, incumbencies, etc

2. any period in which a state lacks a ruler, government, etc

3. a period of absence of some control, authority, etc

4. a gap in a continuity

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Other Word Forms

• interregnal adjective

Etymology

Origin of interregnum

First recorded in 1570–80; from Latin; originally “the period between the death of the old king and the accession of the new one,” equivalent to inter- preposition and prefix + regnum “office or power of a king, kingship, kingdom”; see origin at inter-, reign

Explanation

Interregnum describes the period between the reigns of two leaders. If you're a rebel leader, you may try to gain power during an interregnum. Pronounce interregnum with the accent on the third syllable: "in-ter-REG-num." It comes from Latin: inter- means "between" and regnum means "kingship, dominion, rule, realm." An interregnum can be marked by no government at all, or it can refer to a different kind of leadership between two similar regimes.

Example Sentences

While he was at the Center for Renewing America, the think tank he founded during his private sector interregnum, Vought indicated a few concrete ways he could push his vision.

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2025

If we’re being truly rational, the period from the time you surrender your keys to the moment you collect your vehicle should be an interregnum that fills the heart with dread.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 11, 2023

The Sugarplum Fairy, after an unsought interregnum, is presiding over the Land of Sweets at the New York City Ballet.

From New York Times • Dec. 21, 2022

This is a dangerous moment that may not be apparent as such, a seductive interregnum in what will clearly be a long crisis and fight.

From Salon • Dec. 13, 2022

While blacks did win the right to vote when the Republican Party came to power three years later, and even served in various offices, the interregnum lasted less than a decade.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson

Related Words

• breathing space
• halt
• hesitation
• hiatus
• hitch
• interlude
• intermission
• interruption
• interval
• lapse
• layoff
• letup
• lull
• recess
• respite
• stoppage
• suspension