Definition

1. Noun:

   • A short performance or piece of music, dance, etc., inserted between the parts of a longer performance: An "interlude" is a brief, often contrasting, segment that provides a break or transition within a larger main event, such as a play, concert, or ceremony.
   • An intervening period of time or episode: An "interlude" can also refer to any intervening time or event that occurs between two more significant periods or activities, often implying a temporary or contrasting nature.

2. Verb:

   • To perform or serve as an interlude: To act as or provide a short intervening performance or episode.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The orchestra played a short musical interlude between the acts of the opera.
  • Their romantic holiday in Italy was a delightful interlude in a year filled with hard work.
• Verb:
  • The guitarist interluded with a brief, melodic solo before the singer returned.

Advanced Usage

• "Comic interlude": A short, humorous performance or scene inserted into a serious play or event.
  • The play's dark themes were lightened by a brief comic interlude.
• "An interlude of peace": A temporary period of calm between conflicts.
  • The treaty provided a brief interlude of peace before hostilities resumed.

Variants and Related Words

• Interludial (adj): Pertaining to or of the nature of an interlude. (Rare)
• Interluder (n): A performer of an interlude. (Historical/rare)

Synonyms

• Intermission: A pause or break, especially between acts of a performance.
• Interval: A period of time between events.
• Intermezzo: A short connecting instrumental movement in an opera or other musical work.
• Respite: A short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.

Related Phrases

• To provide an interlude: To offer a short break or contrasting episode.
  • The speaker told a funny story to provide an interlude during the long lecture.

Related Idioms

• A welcome interlude: A short break that is appreciated.
  • The coffee break was a welcome interlude in the day-long meeting.

Noun

1. a brief show (music or dance etc) inserted between the sections of a longer performance
2. an intervening period or episode

Verb

1. perform an interlude
   • The guitar player interluded with a beautiful improvisation