First Known Use: 1563
Dictionary
hiatus
noun hi·a·tus \hī-ˈā-təs\
: a period of time when something (such as an activity or program) is stopped
Full Definition of HIATUS
1
a : a break in or as if in a material object : gap <the hiatus between the theory and the practice of the party — J. G. Colton> b : a gap or passage in an anatomical part or organ
2
a : an interruption in time or continuity : break; especially : a period when something (as a program or activity) is suspended or interrupted <after a 5-year hiatus from writing> b : the occurrence of two vowel sounds without pause or intervening consonantal sound
See hiatus defined for English-language learners
See hiatus defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of HIATUS
Latin, from hiare to yawn — more at yawn
Related to HIATUS
- Synonyms
- breach, break, discontinuity, gulf, gap, hole, interstice, interval, opening, rent, rift, separation, void
- Antonyms
- continuation, continuity
Medical Dictionary
hiatus
noun hi·a·tus \hī-ˈāt-əs\
Medical Definition of HIATUS
: a gap or passage through an anatomical part or organ; especially : a gap through which another part or organ passes
Learn More About HIATUS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: HiawathaPrevious Word in the Dictionary: hiatal herniaAll Words Near: hiatus
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up hiatus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).