cloture

Meanings

1. In legislative assemblies that permit unlimited debate (that is, a filibuster): a motion, procedure or rule by which debate is ended so that a vote may be taken on the matter. For example, in the United States Senate, a three-fifths majority vote of the body is required to invoke cloture and terminate debate.

1. To end legislative debate by this means.

Etymology

Borrowed from French clôture (“closure”). Doublet of closure and clausure.