interregnum

in·ter·reg·num

noun \ˌin-tə-ˈreg-nəm\

plural in·ter·reg·nums or in·ter·reg·na\-nə\

Definition of INTERREGNUM

1

: the time during which a throne is vacant between two successive reigns or regimes

2

: a period during which the normal functions of government or control are suspended

3

: a lapse or pause in a continuous series

Examples of INTERREGNUM

1. <the democratic regime proved to be a short-lived interregnum between dictatorships>

Origin of INTERREGNUM

Latin, from inter- + regnum reign — more at reign

First Known Use: 1590

Related to INTERREGNUM

Synonyms: discontinuity, hiatus, hiccup (also hiccough), interim, interlude, intermission, gap, interruption, interstice, interval, parenthesis

Antonyms: continuation, continuity

Related Words: caesura, comma, interspace, lag, pause, space, time lag, window; entr'acte; bumper; adjournment, discontinuance, lapse, suspension; lull, recess, respite, rest; subinterval

Near Antonyms: continuum, run, stretch; procession, progression

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Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism