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 of interruption

• interval
• hiatus
• pause
• gap

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

Last week, Hungary blocked a new package of EU sanctions on Russia in response to interruptions in Russian oil supplies that pass through Ukraine, and vowed to block a major, $106 billion EU loan destined for Kyiv until oil flows resume. —Arkansas Online, 5 Mar. 2026

The comics will be passing the mic back and forth throughout the night, which will feature special guests, surprise moments and plenty of other unplanned interruptions that will make for a roughly four-hour show. —Deputy Entertainment, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2026

Prior to the attack, the island already was struggling with a crumbling electric grid, generation deficits and interruptions in fuel supplies. —ABC News, 4 Mar. 2026

However, in the 13 years since, Chiodo’s friends and family have been disappointed by the frequent delays and interruptions in the case. —Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for interruption

• incorruption
• corruption
• disruption
• eruption
• irruption