vis major

[vis mey-jer]

noun

Law.

plural

vires majores 

1. force majeure.

vis major

/ ˈvɪs ˈmeɪdʒə /

noun

1. See force majeure

Word History and Origins

Origin of vis major¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of vis major¹

from Latin, literally: greater force

Example Sentences

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

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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.

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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.

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

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

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