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

Yet, for organizations navigating financial, operational and staffing challenges, these periods of transition can easily become interruptions rather than opportunities. — Leslie Anderson, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 July 2026

Healthcare providers can’t afford interruptions, especially during a pandemic. — Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 8 July 2026

Any interruptions in recruiting officers could set the department back, the skeptics argue. — Libor Jany, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026

But behind every match is an operation working around the clock to make sure those moments happen without interruption. — Justyn Newman, PC Magazine, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for interruption

• incorruption
• corruption
• disruption
• eruption
• irruption