interruption

noun

in·​ter·​rup·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈrəp-shən 

plural interruptions

1

: an act of interrupting something or someone or the state of being interrupted: such as

a

: a stoppage or hindering of an activity for a time

Our conversation continued without interruption for over an hour.

b

: a break in the continuity of something

Internet service interruptions

2

: something that causes a stoppage or break in the continuity of something

a rude interruption

watching television without commercial interruptions

Synonyms

• discontinuity
• gap
• hiatus
• hiccup
• hiccough
• interim
• interlude
• intermission
• interregnum
• interstice
• interval
• parenthesis

Examples of interruption in a Sentence

an interruption in cable service during the lightning storm

a brief interruption in the discussion while we all got coffee

Recent Examples on the Web

For Ukrainians, the immediate impact is clear: aid delays and program interruptions will only worsen their already fragile situation. —Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025

When conducting a turnover, don't just set aside time for discussions, but help clear their schedule to complete the turnover without interruptions. —Dr. Cynthia J. Young, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

Historically, great powers have aimed to protect shipping because an interruption in global trade flows can trigger shortages and high inflation, causing economic havoc. —Peter Eavis, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

This interruption led to a subsequent match the following week, where Hendry emerged victorious over Joe Coffey. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for interruption

• incorruption
• corruption
• disruption
• eruption
• irruption