Interrupt

Definition

Interrupt is a verb and noun. As a verb, it means to stop or hinder something temporarily, especially by breaking continuity or focus. As a noun, it refers to a disruption or break in an ongoing process or event.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntəˈrʌpt/
• Respelling: in-tuh-RUHPT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪntəˈrʌpt/
• Respelling: in-tuh-RUHPT

Etymology

The word "interrupt" originates from the Latin "interrumpere," meaning "to break apart," derived from "inter-" (between) and "rumpere" (to break). It was adopted into Middle English through Old French "interrompre," retaining its meaning of causing a break or disruption.

Derivatives

• Interruption (noun)
• Interruptive (adjective)
• Interrupter (noun)
• Uninterrupted (adjective)
• Reinterrupt (verb)

Synonyms

• Disrupt
• Halt
• Interfere

Antonyms

• Continue
• Resume
• Proceed

Usage

The term "interrupt" is used in both technical and conversational contexts. For example, "Please do not interrupt me while I am speaking," or "The power outage caused an interrupt in the service."

Related Terms

• Break: A temporary pause in an activity.
• Pause: A short stop or delay in an action.
• Interference: The act of disrupting or hindering.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To stop or hinder temporarily: Refers to causing a break in an ongoing activity.
  • Example: "He interrupted the meeting to announce urgent news."
• To break continuity or flow: Indicates disrupting a sequence or ongoing process.
  • Example: "The phone call interrupted her train of thought."

Noun

• A break or disruption in an activity or process: Refers to a pause or disturbance.
  • Example: "The broadcast suffered an unexpected interrupt due to technical issues."