interval

An interval refers to a period of time or a space separating two events, objects, or points. It is the gap, the pause, or the distance that exists between things. Think of it like this: if you are training for a race, you might run "intervals," switching between fast running and slower recovery. It also describes the physical space between objects, such as "fence posts placed at two-meter intervals."

In music, an interval is the difference in pitch between two notes, which helps create melody and harmony. In the performing arts, especially in British English, an "interval" is the break between the parts of a play, opera, or concert. Beyond physical or artistic measurements, scientists use intervals to mark specific segments of time or data during experiments.

Figuratively, an interval can also mean a temporary period between two important moments. You might say, "There was a tense interval before the judge announced the verdict," or, "After years of silence, there was a brief interval of communication."

So, whether it is measuring time, distance, musical pitch, or describing a break in a performance, an interval is the space or time that separates two points while linking them in a sequence.