n.1 a a pause between the acts of a play. b something performed or done during this pause.
2 a an intervening time, space, or event that contrasts with what goes before or after. b a temporary amusement or entertaining episode.
3 a piece of music played between other pieces, the verses of a hymn, etc.
Etymology: ME, a light dramatic item between the acts of a morality play, f. med.L interludium (as INTER-, ludus play)