Discontinual

/ˌdɪskənˈtɪnjuəl/ adjective

Definition

Not continuous or unbroken; having gaps, interruptions, or breaks in sequence.

Etymology

From dis- (not) + continual (from Latin continuus: unbroken, from continere: to hold together) + -al (suffix forming adjectives). This rare variant of 'discontinuous' emphasizes lack of continuity.

Kelly Says

While 'discontinuous' is common in science, the archaic 'discontinual' survives mainly in old philosophical texts to describe how mind, time, or existence breaks apart—it sounds medieval and profound!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.