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Interregnum - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An interregnum is a period of temporary interruption or gap in continuity, especially in government or leadership, when normal authority is suspended or between two reigns.

interregnum

/ˌɪn.t̬ɚˈreɡ.nəm/ /ˌɪn.təˈreɡ.nəm/

Definition:

A period between rulers or governments when normal authority is suspended.

Synonyms:

hiatus, gap, interval, interruption

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

continuity, reign, rule

Common Collocations:

political interregnum, brief interregnum, during the interregnum

Derivatives:

interregnal, interregnums

Usage Tips:

Use "interregnum" to describe a temporary gap in leadership or governance, often in politics or organizations.

Common Phrases:

fill the interregnum, end the interregnum, during the interregnum

Etymology:

From Latin "inter-" (between) + "regnum" (reign), meaning a break between reigns or rules.

Examples:

  • 1. The country faced chaos during the interregnum after the king's death.
  • 2. An interim government was formed to manage affairs in the interregnum.
  • 3. The company struggled without a CEO in the brief interregnum between leaders.
  • 4. Historians study how societies function during an interregnum to understand stability mechanisms.

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