interim

/ˈɪntərəm/

/ˈɪntərɪm/

Other forms: interims

An interim is a period of time between one event and another. If a teacher leaves mid-year, there might be an interim teacher, one who takes over the class until a permanent replacement is hired.

Interim is a Latin adverb meaning "in the meantime." The first part, inter means "between." Interim is the time between, and you can use it as a fancy way of referring to a time you squeeze something in. Maybe you get ice cream during the interim between school and piano lessons. This word is often used in official contexts — for example, after the CEO of a company steps down, an interim CEO might serve while a formal job search is conducted.

Definitions of interim

1. noun

   the time between one event, process, or period and another
   synonyms: lag, meantime, meanwhile

   types:

   interregnum

   the time between two reigns, governments, etc.

   type of:

   interval, time interval

   a definite length of time marked off by two instants
2. adjective

   serving during an intermediate interval of time
   “an interim agreement”

   synonyms:

   impermanent, temporary

   not permanent; not lasting