interval

in·ter·val

noun \ˈin-tər-vəl\

Definition of INTERVAL

1

a : a space of time between events or states

b British : intermission

2

a : a space between objects, units, points, or states

b : difference in pitch between tones

3

: a set of real numbers between two numbers either including or excluding one or both of them

4

: one of a series of fast-paced exercises interspersed with slower ones or brief rests for training (as of an athlete)

— in·ter·val·lic \ˌin-tər-ˈva-lik\ adjective

Examples of INTERVAL

1. a three-month interval between jobs
2. There might be long intervals during which nothing happens.
3. The sun shone for brief intervals throughout the day.
4. There will be a 20-minute interval between acts one and two.

Origin of INTERVAL

Middle English intervalle, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French entreval, from Latin intervallum space between ramparts, interval, from inter- + vallum rampart — more at wall

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to INTERVAL

Synonyms

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

in·ter·val

noun \ˈint-ər-vəl\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of INTERVAL

: a space of time between events or states <intervals between pregnancies>

interval

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Examples of simple musical intervals.—© Merriam-Webster Inc.

In music, the inclusive distance between one tone and another, whether sounded successively (melodic interval) or simultaneously (harmonic interval). In Western music, intervals are generally named according to the number of scale-steps within a given key that they embrace; thus, the ascent from C to G (C–D–E–F–G) is called a fifth because the interval embraces five scale degrees. There are four perfect intervals: prime, or unison; octave; fourth; and fifth. The other intervals (seconds, thirds, sixths, sevenths) have major and minor forms that differ in size by a half step (semitone). Both perfect and major intervals may be augmented, or enlarged by a half tone. Perfect and minor intervals may be diminished, or narrowed by a half tone.