INTERSTICE

interstice

(noun) small opening between things

interstice

(noun) a small structural space between tissues or parts of an organ; “the interstices of a network”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

interstice (plural interstices)

A small opening or space between objects, especially adjacent objects or objects set closely together, as between cords in a rope or components of a multiconductor electrical cable or between atoms in a crystal.

(figurative) A fragment of space.

An interval of time required by the Roman Catholic Church between the attainment of different degrees of an order.

(by extension) A small interval of time free to be spent on activities other than one's primary goal.

Synonyms

• (small opening or space between objects): chink, crack, cranny, crevice, fissure, gap, slit; see also interspace or hole

Source: Wiktionary

In*ter"stice, n.; pl. Interstices. Etym: [L. interstitium a pause, interval; inter between + sistere to set, fr. stare to stand: cf. F. interstice. See Stand.]

1. That which intervenes between one thing and another; especially, a space between things closely set, or between the parts which compose a body; a narrow chink; a crack; a crevice; a hole; an interval; as, the interstices of a wall.

2. An interval of time; specifically (R. C. Ch.), in the plural, the intervals which the canon law requires between the reception of the various degrees of orders. Nonobservance of the interstices . . . is a sin. Addis & Arnold.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition