Langimage
English

interrupt

|in/ter/rupt|

B1

/ˌɪntəˈrʌpt/

break in continuity

Etymology
Etymology Information

'interrupt' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'interrumpere,' where 'inter-' meant 'between' and 'rumpere' meant 'to break.'

Historical Evolution

'interrumpere' transformed into the Old French word 'interrompre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'interrupt' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to break between,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to stop the continuous progress of an activity or process.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to stop the continuous progress of an activity or process.

The speaker was interrupted by loud applause.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to break the continuity of a line or surface.

The road was interrupted by a series of potholes.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35