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, adjectiveWords nearby interstice
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-tûr′stĭs ]
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-tûr′stĭs ]
An opening or space, especially a small or narrow one between mineral grains in a rock or within sediments or soil.