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

The most dominant figure in Hungarian politics since the fall of Communism in 1989, Orban has sat in Hungary’s legislature for 36 years without interruption, serving as premier for the past 16 years. —Bloomberg News, Boston Herald, 25 Apr. 2026

The band’s life effectively changed overnight, and now — 50 years after the song’s release — Gorham, talking from his home in London between a few vape hits and interruptions from his cat, tries to unpack what the fuss was all about. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 24 Apr. 2026

Burke spoke only to consent to intermittent interruptions of his preliminary hearing, allowing the court to address other pending matters. —Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 23 Apr. 2026

Quality family time without interruptions or distractions is easily found here. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for interruption

• incorruption
• corruption
• disruption
• eruption
• irruption