rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymoratoriumTemporary suspension
noun

moratorium

mor-uh-TOR-ee-um/ˌmɔːrəˈtɔːriəm/

A temporary suspension of an activity or postponement of an obligation.

The construction moratorium temporarily stops work before an authorized restart.

A compact three-stage construction sequence shows work underway, an official suspension with the site closed and equipment stored, and authorized reopening with work resuming.
Etymology
moratoriumLatintending to delay

The ancestor meant “tending to delay.” A moratorium originally authorized a debtor to postpone payment; that legal reprieve broadened into an official temporary suspension of an activity.

In context

FRONTLINE PBS | Official2:55
the federal government ordered billions in rent relief and a temporary ban on evictions, first through the CARES Act, later through a moratorium issued by the CDC.
Facing Eviction (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

More examples

  • The lenders agreed to a temporary payment moratorium.
  • The moratorium will allow time for a review.
  • They requested a moratorium while negotiations continued.

Forms

moratorium · moratoriums · moratoria

Similar words

pause
Pause is general; a moratorium is a formally agreed or imposed temporary suspension.
ban
A ban prohibits something; a moratorium specifically suspends it for a time.