separation
sep.a.ra.tion \.sep-*-'ra--sh*n\ n 1: the act or process of separating : the state of being separated 2a: a point, line, or means of division 2b: an intervening space : GAP 3a: cessation of cohabitation between husband and wife by mutual agreement or judicial decree 3b: termination of a contractual relationship (as employment or military se rvice)