[in-tur-stis] /ɪnˈtɜr stɪs/
noun, plural interstices
[in-tur-stuh-seez, -stuh-siz] /ɪnˈtɜr stəˌsiz, -stə sɪz/ (Show IPA)
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.
noun (usually pl)
a minute opening or crevice between things
(physics) the space between adjacent atoms in a crystal lattice
early 15c., from Old French interstice (14c.) and directly from Latin interstitium “interval,” literally “space between,” from inter- “between” (see inter-) + stem of stare “to stand” (see stet). Related: Interstices.
interstice in·ter·stice (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.
An opening or space, especially a small or narrow one between mineral grains in a rock or within sediments or soil.
[in-ter-stish-uh l] /ˌɪn tərˈstɪʃ əl/ adjective 1. pertaining to, situated in, or forming . 2. Anatomy. situated between the cells of a structure or part: interstitial tissue. noun 3. Crystallography. an imperfection in a crystal caused by the presence of an extra atom in an otherwise complete lattice. Compare (def 6). /ˌɪntəˈstɪʃəl/ adjective 1. of […]
- Interstitial cell
interstitial cell n. A cell that occurs between the germ cells of the gonads and that may furnish the male sex hormone. Also called Leydig cell.
- Interstitial cystitis
interstitial cystitis n. A chronic inflammatory condition of unknown cause involving the mucosa and muscular tissue of the bladder and resulting in reduced bladder capacity.
- Interstitial disease
interstitial disease n. A disease that chiefly affects the connective tissue framework of an organ.