cloture

(noun)

In legislative assemblies that permit unlimited debate (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.

Related Terms

Examples of cloture in the following topics:

  • Debate

    • The only way to end a filibuster is for three-fifths of all Senators to vote for a cloture resolution, which ends all debate and brings the bill up for voting.

  • The Senate

    • Holds can be overcome, but require time-consuming procedures such as filing cloture.