intermittently
UK: ˌɪntəˈmɪtntli | US: ˌɪntərˈmɪtntli
adv. at irregular intervals; not continuously or steadily
The word "intermittently" derives from Latin intermittere, combining inter- (between) and mittere (to send). The root mitt- evolved into English words like "emit" (send out) and "submit" (send under). Over time, intermittere came to mean "to pause at intervals," reflecting the idea of sending actions between breaks. The suffix -ently transforms the adjective "intermittent" into an adverb, preserving the core concept of irregularity.
The old lighthouse flashes intermittently to guide ships at night.
Rain fell intermittently throughout the day, disrupting outdoor plans.
His fever returned intermittently despite medication.
The radio signal was lost intermittently due to storm interference.
She checked her phone intermittently during the meeting.