interlude
UK[ˈɪntəl(j)uːd]US[ˈɪntərluːd]
n
a short period of time between the parts of a play, concert, etc.
n
an intervening period of time or an event that is different from what comes before and after it.
Morpheme Breakdown
inter
lude
inter
between
lude
play
Etymology
The word 'interlude' has a direct and theatrical origin. It entered English in the 14th century from Medieval Latin interludium, which was formed by combining the Latin prefix inter- ("between") with ludus ("a play"). Its original, literal meaning was a short dramatic performance or comic scene inserted between the acts of a longer, more serious play or mystery play. Over time, the logic of "a play between" broadened semantically. It evolved to describe any intervening or contrasting period, event, or piece of music that serves as a break or transition between the main parts of a larger sequence, moving from a specific theatrical context to a general abstract concept.
Analysis
Structure: inter (between) + lude (play)
- inter: Latin origin, meaning "between, among". A prefix indicating location or relation.
- lude: From Latin ludus, meaning "play, game, sport". A root indicating an activity or performance.
Examples
There was a short interlude for refreshments during the conference.
The peaceful interlude between the two storms was a welcome relief.
The album features a beautiful instrumental interlude between the two vocal tracks.