estoppel

[ e-stop-uhl ]

noun

, Law.

1. a bar or impediment preventing a party from asserting a fact or a claim inconsistent with a position that party previously took, either by conduct or words, especially where a representation has been relied or acted upon by others.

estoppel

/ ɪˈstɒpəl /

noun

1. See conclusion
   law a rule of evidence whereby a person is precluded from denying the truth of a statement of facts he has previously asserted See also conclusion

Word History and Origins

Origin of estoppel¹

First recorded in 1575–85, estoppel is from the Middle French word estoupail stopper. See estop, -al ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of estoppel¹

C16: from Old French estoupail plug, from estoper to stop up; see estop

Example Sentences

In the latter statement the members of the Oregon Milling Company, who signed the petition, stated an estoppel to themselves.

From Project Gutenberg

It is one of the privileges of deeds as distinguished from simple contracts that they operate by way of estoppel.

From Project Gutenberg

Estoppel is said to arise in three ways— by record or judgment, by deed, and by matter in pais or conduct.

From Project Gutenberg

History now pleads them as an estoppel against his followers.

From Project Gutenberg

No excuse of State Rights, no fine-spun technicality, no plea of irregularity, no argument of estoppel can be heard.

From Project Gutenberg