interregnum

[ in-ter-reg-nuh m ]
/ ˌɪn tərˈrɛg nəm /

noun, plural in·ter·reg·nums, in·ter·reg·na [in-ter-reg-nuh] /ˌɪn tərˈrɛg nə/.

an interval of time between the close of a sovereign's reign and the accession of his or her normal or legitimate successor.
any period during which a state has no ruler or only a temporary executive.
any period of freedom from the usual authority.
any pause or interruption in continuity.

Origin of interregnum

1570–80; < Latin, equivalent to inter- inter- + rēgnum reign

OTHER WORDS FROM interregnum

in·ter·reg·nal, adjective

British Dictionary definitions for interregnal

interregnum
/ (ˌɪntəˈrɛɡnəm) /

noun plural -nums or -na (-nə)

an interval between two reigns, governments, incumbencies, etc
any period in which a state lacks a ruler, government, etc
a period of absence of some control, authority, etc
a gap in a continuity

Derived forms of interregnum

interregnal, adjective

Word Origin for interregnum

C16: from Latin, from inter- + regnum reign