cloture
Americannoun
verb (used with or without object)
noun
verb
Etymology
Origin of cloture
1870–75; < French clôture, Middle French closture < Vulgar Latin *clōstūra, alteration of Latin clōstra, claustra, plural of claustrum barrier. See claustral, -ure
Explanation
When a Senate debate is brought to a swift end, it's done with a procedure called cloture. Cloture is most often used to end a filibuster. Other governments, including the U.K. and Australia, have similar rules for halting debate. The United States first adopted cloture in 1919 as a response to filibusters, which occur when a Senator speaks at great length, usually to avoid voting on a bill that he or she doesn't support. Filibusters can go on for hours—but when at least 60 Senators vote for cloture, all debate stops and a vote must occur. Cloture means "closure" in French.
Vocabulary lists containing cloture
U.S. Government - Middle School and High School
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The Legislative Branch, Sections 4–6
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U.S. Government - Middle School and High School
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
When cloture was created, the implicit understanding was that senators would debate to the point of satisfaction or exhaustion, then vote.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026
Thune filed a motion for cloture on Wednesday, a key procedural step that could lead to a vote in the coming days.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 5, 2026
In 1917, senators adopted the rule allowing cloture if a two-thirds majority voted to end debate.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 11, 2025
The result is that a determined minority can block legislation by preventing cloture and prolonging debate.
From Barron's ● Nov. 4, 2025
Tell the former that cabbages do not cost 5 shillings apiece, and the latter that 11 P.M. is the cloture.
From Life and Letters of Thomas Henry Huxley — Volume 2 by Thomas Henry Huxley
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