'interlude' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'interludium,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'ludus' meant 'play or game.'

'interludium' transformed into the Old French word 'entreluge,' and eventually became the modern English word 'interlude' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a play or performance between acts,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a break or interval.'