What does interregnum mean?
An interregnum is a period of transition between two established stages, most commonly between the reigns of two monarchs. In political language, it may indicate that no monarch is formally recognized or that the usual constitutional arrangements have been interrupted. The word can also describe a broader gap between successive governments, institutions, or phases of activity, such as a hiatus in a cultural programme. Its tone is generally formal and historical, and it often conveys more than a simple break by suggesting a temporary disruption of orderly authority or continuity. Derived from Latin, the term remains useful today for describing moments when normal political or institutional structures are suspended and a different arrangement operates in the meantime.
nounA period between the reigns of two monarchs, especially one in which no monarch is formally in place. The term is also used more broadly for an interval between two successive phases, administrations, or established periods of activity.
- The period between the reigns of two monarchs, especially when there is no formally recognized monarch.
- A transitional period between two governments, political systems, or other successive phases.
"The country entered a long political interregnum after the monarch's death, with the government operating under a temporary arrangement."
"The successful revolution was followed by a period of political interregnum."
"There was an interregnum in the exhibition's programme between the summer and winter seasons."
The plural is used for multiple historical or transitional intervals.
"The archives document several interregna marked by disputes over the succession."
Interregnum comes from Latin for “between reigns”: the word literally names the gap between one monarch and the next.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interregnum come from?
Interregnum comes from Latin interregnum, a compound of inter (“between”) and regnum (“kingdom” or “reign”). It literally denotes the period between one reign and another. The word entered English in the early 17th century in political and historical contexts and later broadened to refer more generally to periods of transition.
How interregnum is actually used
In historical and political contexts, the word usually suggests a formally recognized interruption in a monarch's reign. In broader usage, it is formal and may describe any notable gap between two phases, especially in politics, the arts, or institutional activity.
Easily confused with interregnum
An interregnum is the interval itself, whereas an interregent is a person who acts as a temporary ruler during such an interval.