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interval

noun

/ˈɪn tər vəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of interval

A defined period of time or space between two events, actions, or points.
"The train arrives at regular intervals throughout the day."

Detailed meaning of interval

It represents a specific duration or gap that separates two consecutive occurrences or intervals. In the context of time, an interval can be a specific length, such as minutes, hours, days, or years. It can also refer to the space of time between two scheduled events, performances, or appointments. In music, an interval is the distance or pitch between two notes, indicating the difference in their frequencies. The term "interval" can also describe a designated break or intermission during a performance or activity. Furthermore, in mathematics, an interval represents a range of values between two points, usually defined by brackets or parentheses. In summary, the noun "interval" encapsulates the notion of a distinct and measurable period of time, space, or musical pitch that separates two elements, events, or concepts.

Example sentences containing interval

1. We took a short break during the interval of the play.
2. The doctor asked the patient to wait for an interval before taking another dose.
3. The concert had an interval of 15 minutes between the first and second halves.
4. The runner increased her speed during the final interval of the race.
5. The alarm clock was set to go off at five-minute intervals.
6. The student raised their hand during the interval to ask a question.

History and etymology of interval

The noun 'interval' traces its origins to the Latin word 'intervallum,' which combines 'inter,' meaning 'between,' and 'vallum,' meaning 'wall' or 'rampart.' In its earliest usage, during the Roman era, 'intervallum' referred to the space or gap between two fortifications or defensive walls. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader sense of the gap or space between any two points, whether in time or space. Thus, the etymology of 'interval' highlights its fundamental concept as something that lies between, marking a defined period of time or space between two events, actions, or points.

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Further usage examples of interval

1. The teacher provided a brief interval for students to review their notes.
2. The movie had an interval for viewers to stretch their legs and visit the restroom.
3. The scientist measured the time interval between each occurrence of the event.
4. The singer held a long, melodic note for an impressive interval.
5. The meeting was scheduled with a ten-minute interval between each presenter.
6. There's a brief interval between the two meetings.
7. The concert will have an intermission at the halfway interval.
8. The time interval between buses is quite long today.
9. Please take short breaks at regular intervals during work.
10. There's a significant interval between their birthdays.
11. The train departs at regular intervals throughout the day.
12. The interval between sunrise and sunset varies by location.
13. Can you measure the time interval accurately?
14. The teacher allowed an interval for questions during the lecture.
15. The medication should be taken at specific intervals.
16. The intervals between rain showers grew shorter.
17. A brief interval of silence followed their heated argument.
18. The interval between the lightning and thunder was short.
19. The play had a dramatic pause at a crucial interval.
20. The clock chimed at regular fifteen-minute intervals.
21. There's an interval of peace before the storm arrives.
22. The interval between the two wars was a time of rebuilding.
23. The traffic light changes at set intervals.
24. The interval between the first and second courses was brief.
25. She took short intervals to catch her breath during the race.