Moratorium

/ˌmɒrəˈtɔːriəm/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legally authorized period of delay or suspension of an activity or obligation.
    The court issued a moratorium on all evictions during the pandemic.
  2. (n.) A temporary prohibition of an activity by government or legal authority.
    The government declared a moratorium on new construction permits.

Forms

  • moratoriums
  • moratoria

Commentary

Typically used to pause legal or contractual duties; ensure explicit terms defining duration and scope to avoid ambiguity.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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