ceasefire
SEES-fyr
/ˈsiːsfaɪər/
A temporary suspension of active hostilities; an agreement to stop shooting.
A ceasefire is often localized, urgent, and tactical. It is frequently declared to allow humanitarian aid, evacuate civilians, or recover the wounded, without necessarily resolving the broader conflict.
The story behind the word. A literal compound of the English words 'cease' (derived from the Latin 'cessare', meaning to delay or stop) and 'fire' (referring to gunpowder weapons). It came into common military use in the 19th century as a direct command to troops to stop shooting.
Word relationships
- truce: A truce is a broader term that can cover any pause in fighting or arguing, whereas a ceasefire specifically refers to the cessation of shooting and military attacks.
- bombardment: A bombardment is an active, heavy attack with artillery or bombs, representing the height of active combat.
Commonly confused with
- armistice: A ceasefire is a physical halt to shooting, often temporary and fragile; an armistice is a formal, high-level diplomatic agreement to suspend the war.
Word family
- cease (verb): To stop or bring to an end.
- fire (verb): To shoot weapons.
Collocations
- declare a ceasefire
- violate a ceasefire
- fragile ceasefire
- humanitarian ceasefire
Example sentences
- "The Security Council today demanded an immediate ceasefire to allow aid convoys to reach the besieged city." United Nations resolution demanding an immediate halt to fighting.
- "Despite the declared ceasefire, sporadic gunfire could still be heard along the border." A news report on a fragile peace agreement.
Memory hook
It is exactly what it says on the tin: 'cease' means stop, and 'fire' means shoot. Stop shooting! Cease (Stop) + Fire (Shooting) = Ceasefire.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to a comprehensive, legally binding treaty that permanently settles a war.
Fun facts
- In military radio communications, the command 'cease fire' means to stop firing immediately, but weapons remain loaded and ready to fire again if the order is given.
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