Definition

A person who temporarily rules or governs during a period when there is no official leader, often used in historical contexts.

Example

During the interregnum, the interrex ensured that the government continued to function smoothly until a new leader was elected.

Conversation

Did you know that during an interregnum, they used to appoint an interrex in ancient Rome?

Really? I had no idea there was a specific role for that.

Yeah, it was like having a temporary leader until the new consuls were elected.

That's fascinating! I wonder how they decided who would take on that role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Interrex → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "rex" (meaning king). The term refers to a temporary ruler who governs in the absence of a king, thus governing 'between' kings.

Memory Tip

Think of someone ruling 'between' kings — 'inter-' means between, and 'rex' means king.

Visually Confused Words