interstice

in·ter·stice

noun \in-ˈtər-stəs\

plural in·ter·stic·es\-stə-ˌsēz, -stə-səz\

Definition of INTERSTICE

1

a : a space that intervenes between things; especially : one between closely spaced things <interstices of a wall> b : a gap or break in something generally continuous <the interstices of society> <passages of genuine literary merit in the interstices of the ludicrous … plots — Joyce Carol Oates>

2

: a short space of time between events

Examples of INTERSTICE

1. <there's an occasional interstice in the tedium, but most of the novel is boring>
2. <pesky weeds growing in the interstices between the flagstones>

Origin of INTERSTICE

Middle English, from Latin interstitium, from inter- + -stit-, -stes standing (as in superstes standing over) — more at superstition

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to INTERSTICE

Synonyms: discontinuity, hiatus, hiccup (also hiccough), interim, interlude, intermission, interregnum, interruption, gap, 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

see all synonyms and antonyms

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