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

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

From BBC

Major California airports are not expected to see immediate interruptions in service.

From Los Angeles Times

Forest Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Park Service are also bracing for interruptions under the shutdown in addition to cuts this year.

From Los Angeles Times

Medicare and Medicaid, social health programmes for the elderly and poor, will continue, but staffing shortages could lead to some interruptions for certain services.

From BBC

It assessed that such an attack could potentially lead to an interruption of its business, create cashflow issues, and damage its brand.

From BBC

Related Words

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