vis major

American  

[vis mey-jer] / ˈvɪs ˈmeɪ dʒər /

noun

Law.

PLURAL

vires majores

1. force majeure.

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vis major British  

/ ˈvɪs ˈmeɪdʒə /

noun

1. See force majeure

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Etymology

Origin of vis major

First recorded in 1595–1605, vis major is from Latin vīs major “greater force”

Example Sentences

Nationalization is the cardinal fact, the vis major, on each side.

From Project Gutenberg

In Spain an act of the 30th of January 1900, adopted the Spain. principle of the personal responsibility of the employer for accidents to workmen other than those due to vis major.

From Project Gutenberg

Under Roman law, it was the rule in contracts for rent that a tenant was not bound to pay if any vis major prevented him from reaping.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, ah! then, continued Homenas, no hail, frost, ice, snow, overflowing, or vis major; then plenty of all earthly goods here below.

From Project Gutenberg

When I say that you ought to choose, I except vis major and fear, which destroy all power of choice.

From Project Gutenberg