cloture

[ kloh-cher ]

noun

1. a method of closing a debate and causing an immediate vote to be taken on the question.

verb (used with or without object)

, clo·tured, clo·tur·ing.

1. to close (a debate) by cloture.

cloture

/ ˈkləʊtʃə /

noun

1. closure in the US Senate

verb

1. tr to end (debate) in the US Senate by cloture

cloture

1. A vote of a legislature used to stop debate on an issue and put the issue to a vote. ( See filibuster .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of cloture¹

1870–75; < French clôture, Middle French closture < Vulgar Latin *clōstūra, alteration of Latin clōstra, claustra, plural of claustrum barrier. See claustral, -ure

Word History and Origins

Origin of cloture¹

C19: from French clôture, from Old French closure

Example Sentences

It’s a matter of getting cloture for a full vote of the Senate.

From Washington Blade

In theory, Senate Democrats could change the cloture rule—and, with it, the need for 60 votes.

From Time

Unlike today, when 60 senators can force a vote using a process known as cloture, there was no way to end the obstruction.

From Vox

In 1917, cloture was introduced, with a two-thirds majority required for its use.

From Vox

The closest we have, then, is the count of cloture votes, which records how often the majority tries to end a filibuster.

From Vox

Getting 15 Republicans to support cloture on any Democratic nominee is going to be tough.

From The Daily Beast

The little pests will go on to a supposedly prestigious institution (the Senate) choked in ivy (or cloture debate).

From The Daily Beast

While Corker joined the rest of his caucus in voting against final passage, he saw no point in voting against cloture.

From The Daily Beast

The big turning point in the vote seemed to be when both McConnell and Cornyn supported the cloture vote.

From The Daily Beast

The Republicans who face a challenge—like Minority Leader Mitch McConnell—voted against cloture, and will vote against the deal.

From The Daily Beast

To prevent this Mr. Mason wishes a rule of cloture (or closure, as it is called in England) adopted.

From Project Gutenberg

If you had asked a Chicagoan, the honorable chairman would have been compelled to resort to cloture before the orator got through.

From Project Gutenberg