interval
IHN-tuh-voh
Interval (noun) means a gap or space between two points, whether in time, distance, or a sequence. Example: “There was a long interval between the two flashes of lightning.”
noun
1
A gap or space between two points, whether in time, distance, or a sequence.
"There was a long interval between the two flashes of lightning."
"Take the medicine at regular intervals throughout the day."
"Plant the seeds at even intervals along the row so they have room."
2
British: a short break or intermission, especially during a play, concert, or sports match.
"We bought ice cream during the interval."
"The lights came up for the interval, and everyone queued for drinks."
"Did you see who was sitting behind us during the interval?"
3
Music: the difference in pitch between two notes.
"A perfect fifth is an interval of seven semitones."
"The song opens with a rising interval that is easy to sing."
"Piano students practise recognising each interval by ear."
How to use interval
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA gap between two things — in time, space, sound, or a live event.
UK vs US
British English uses "interval" for a theatre or concert break; American English typically says "intermission."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
at regular intervals
short interval
during the interval
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Word forms
- Plural
- intervals
Fill the gap
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There was a long _____ between the two flashes of lightning.
Etymology
From Latin intervallum, literally "space between two palisades," from inter- ("between") plus vallum ("wall" or "rampart").
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “interval” mean?
The word “interval” means a gap or space between two points, whether in time, distance, or a sequence. In plain terms, a gap between two things — in time, space, sound, or a live event.
How do you pronounce “interval”?
“Interval” is pronounced IHN-tuh-voh (/ˈɪntɚvəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “interval” in a sentence?
Here is “interval” used in a sentence: “There was a long interval between the two flashes of lightning.”
What part of speech is “interval”?
“Interval” is a noun.
Where does the word “interval” come from?
The word “interval” comes from Latin. From Latin intervallum, literally "space between two palisades," from inter- ("between") plus vallum ("wall" or "rampart").
Is “interval” a common word?
“Interval” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “interval” have?
“Interval” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a gap or space between two points, whether in time, distance, or a sequence.
What is the difference between "interval" and "intermission"?
Interval and intermission both describe a break during a performance, but interval is the more common British term, while intermission is used more often in American English. Both refer to the same kind of pause in a play, concert, or show.
What does "interval" mean in music?
In music, an interval is the difference in pitch between two notes, such as the gap between C and G. Musicians use interval names, like a third or a fifth, to describe how far apart two notes are.
What does "interval" mean in fitness or interval training?
In fitness, an interval refers to a set period of exercise at a particular intensity, alternated with rest or lower-intensity periods, as in "interval training." This usage draws on the general sense of interval as a gap or segment within a sequence.
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