Interregnum: meaning, definitions and examples

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interregnum

 

[ ˌɪn.təˈrɛɡ.nəm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

political period

An interregnum is a period of discontinuity or 'gap' between the reign of one sovereign and the next. It can also refer to an interval of time during which normal government is suspended, often leading to uncertainty or instability in governance. The term is commonly used in historical and political discussions.

Synonyms

break, gap, interval, suspension

Examples of usage

  • The country experienced an interregnum after the king's abdication.
  • During the interregnum, rival factions vied for power.
  • The interregnum allowed for reforms in the government structure.
  • Literary works often reflect the turmoil of the interregnum era.

Translations

Translations of the word "interregnum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interregno

🇮🇳 अंतरिम काल

🇩🇪 Interregnum

🇮🇩 interregnum

🇺🇦 інтеррегіум

🇵🇱 interregnum

🇯🇵 インタレグナム

🇫🇷 interrègne

🇪🇸 interregno

🇹🇷 interregnum

🇰🇷 인터레그넘

🇸🇦 فترة انتقالية

🇨🇿 interregnum

🇸🇰 interregnum

🇨🇳 间歇期

🇸🇮 interregnum

🇮🇸 interregnum

🇰🇿 интеррегнум

🇬🇪 ინტერეგნუმი

🇦🇿 interregnum

🇲🇽 interregno

Etymology

The word 'interregnum' originates from the Latin 'interregnum', which is a combination of 'inter' meaning 'between' and 'regnum' meaning 'reign' or 'kingdom'. It was historically used to denote the period when a throne was vacant, specifically after a king's death or abdication until the succession of a new king. The concept of interregnum has been associated with various historical contexts and regimes, particularly in monarchies. Over time, the usage of 'interregnum' has broadened to apply not only to monarchies but also to other forms of government experiencing a vacancy in leadership or authority. Today, it remains a relevant term in discussions relating to political theory and the dynamics of power transitions.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,474, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.