Interval

/ˈɪntəvəʊ/ · noun

Meaning

A distance in space..

Definitions by Sense

1. A distance in space.
2. A period of time.
3. (music) The difference (a ratio or logarithmic measure) in pitch between two notes, often referring to those two pitches themselves (otherwise known as a dyad).
4. (mathematics) A connected section of the real line which may be empty or have a length of zero.
5. (chiefly British and India) An intermission.
6. (sports) half time, a scheduled intermission between the periods of play.
7. (cricket) Either of the two breaks, at lunch and tea, between the three sessions of a day's play.

Example Sentences

'Twixt host and host but narrow space was left, / A dreadful interval.

[M]any attempts were made to prevent the spreading of it [the fire] by pulling down Houses, and making great Intervals, but all in vain, the Fire seizing upon the Timber and Rubbish, and so continuing it set even through those spaces […]

the interval between contractions during childbirth

Spain made three substitutions at the interval, sending on former Arsenal captain Fabregas, Chelsea's Juan Mata and Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina for Xavi, David Silva and Casillas.

Synonyms for interval

Antonyms for interval

Related Words

Word Forms

• intervals

Usage Notes

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