interstice

[ in-tur-stis ]
/ ɪnˈtɜr stɪs /

noun, plural in·ter·stic·es [in-tur-stuh-seez, -stuh-siz] /ɪnˈtɜr stəˌsiz, -stə sɪz/.

an intervening space.
a small or narrow space or interval between things or parts, especially when one of a series of alternating uniform spaces and parts: the interstices between the slats of a fence.
Roman Catholic Church. the interval of time that must elapse, as required by canon law, before promotion to a higher degree of orders.
an interval of time.

Origin of interstice

1595–1605; < Latin interstitium, equivalent to interstit-, variant stem of intersistere to stand or put between + -ium -ium

OTHER WORDS FROM interstice

in·ter·sticed, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for interstices

British Dictionary definitions for interstices

interstice
/ (ɪnˈtɜːstɪs) /

noun (usually plural)

a minute opening or crevice between things
physics the space between adjacent atoms in a crystal lattice

Word Origin for interstice

C17: from Latin interstitium interval, from intersistere, from inter- + sistere to stand

Medical definitions for interstices

interstice
[ ĭn-tûrstĭs ]

n. pl. in•ter•stic•es (-stĭ-sēz′, -sĭz)

A small area, space, or hole in the substance of an organ or tissue.

Scientific definitions for interstices

interstice
[ ĭn-tûrstĭs ]

An opening or space, especially a small or narrow one between mineral grains in a rock or within sediments or soil.