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Definition

noun

The phase in the life cycle of a cell wherein the cell is not undergoing cell division (as compared to mitosis and meiosis)

Supplement

In cell cycle, interphase is the period between two consecutive cell divisions, e.g. the interval between two mitoses (hence the name). Compared to mitosis, the interphase is generally longer in duration; it is comprised of three stages: G1, S phase, and G2. During interphase, the cell typically undergoes growth (i.e. increases in cell size) and makes a copy of the cell's DNA to prepare for the next cell division.

Word origin: inter (between) + phase (from phasis, appearance)

Synonym(s):

• Interkinesis

See also:

• mitosis
• meiosis
• cell cycle