Interregnum

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ˌɪntəɹˈɹɛɡnÉ™m/

Origin

From Latin inter- "between" + the accusative of regnum (which is regnum) meaning "reign", "power" or "kingdom". Literally meaning "between reign" or "between kingdom".

Full definition of interregnum

Noun

1. The period of time between the end of a sovereign's reign and the accession of another sovereign.
2. A period of time during which normal executive leadership is suspended or interrupted.
3. An intermission in any order of succession; any breach of continuity in action or influence.
• 1835, w, s:The Partisan, This was in that strange pause of the storm which is its most remarkable feature in the South—that singular interregnum of the winds, when, after giving repeated notice of their most terrific action, they seem almost to forget their purpose, and for a few moments appear to slumber in their inactivity.