plural intervals
Synonyms of interval
1
a
: a space of time between events or states
a two-month interval between medical treatments
There were long intervals during the game in which nothing exciting happened.
b
British : intermission
There was a twenty minute interval between acts two and three.
2
: the difference in pitch between two tones
3
: a space between objects, units, points, or states
The posts were set up at regular intervals along the road.
4
: one of a series of fast-paced or intense physical exercises alternated with slower or less intense ones or brief rests for training (as of an athlete) see also interval training
5
: a set of real numbers between two numbers either including or excluding one or both of them

Examples of interval in a Sentence

a three-month interval between jobs There might be long intervals during which nothing happens. The sun shone for brief intervals throughout the day. There will be a 20-minute interval between acts one and two.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pulse for a few seconds in intervals until the ingredients are pulverized into a smooth paste. — Rachel Gurjar, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026 The check-in and action interval will vary by decision; the point is to check progress early. — Maureen Metcalf, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026 The ranking is the result of an elaborate process which, due to the interval of data-collection and analysis, is a reflection of the last three calendar years. — Time Staff, Time, 28 Oct. 2026 The different categories of wellness providers range from high-intensity interval studios to specialty clinics offering vitamin injections. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for interval

Word History

Etymology

Middle English intervalle, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French entreval, from Latin intervallum space between ramparts, interval, from inter- + vallum rampart — more at wall

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of interval was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interval. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

interval

noun
1
: a period of time between events or states : pause
a three-month interval
the interval between elections
2
: a space between things
the interval between two desks
3
: difference in pitch between tones

Medical Definition

interval

noun
: a space of time between events or states
intervals between pregnancies

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