Word: Ceasefire
Meaning:
A ceasefire is an agreement between opposing sides in a conflict to stop fighting, typically for a temporary period, to allow for negotiations, peace talks, or humanitarian efforts.
History and Origins:
The term “ceasefire” originates from the combination of two English words: “cease” (meaning to stop) and “fire” (which in this context refers to the firing of weapons). It has been in use since the early 20th century, particularly during conflicts and wars, to describe an agreement to halt hostilities, often temporarily, to allow for negotiations or humanitarian efforts.
Definitions and Meaning in English:
- Ceasefire (noun): An agreement between opposing sides in a conflict to stop fighting, usually temporarily, to allow for peace talks or to address specific humanitarian needs.
- Ceasefire (verb): To stop fighting or shooting, often in a military context.
Detailed Explanation:
A ceasefire refers to the suspension of active fighting between groups, usually during a war or conflict. It is typically a temporary measure and may be agreed upon by the warring parties for a variety of reasons, such as the need for negotiations, the delivery of aid, or a break to resolve issues before resuming the conflict. Ceasefires are often fragile, as they are frequently contingent on mutual trust and can be violated if one side feels that it is being unfairly disadvantaged.
Example Sentences:
- The two warring factions agreed to a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach the civilians caught in the crossfire.
- After days of intense fighting, the military leaders declared a ceasefire to initiate peace talks.
- The ceasefire was broken when one side resumed fire, disregarding the temporary truce.
Synonyms with Short Explanation:
- Truce: A temporary halt to fighting between opposing sides, often formalized in written agreements.
- Armistice: A formal agreement to end hostilities, usually before a peace treaty is signed.
- Temporary halt: A short period during which active fighting is paused, without necessarily formalizing a ceasefire agreement.
Related Words with Short Explanation:
- Negotiation: A discussion aimed at reaching an agreement, often following a ceasefire or truce.
- Peace talks: Formal discussions between opposing sides aimed at resolving conflict and reaching peace.
- Humanitarian aid: Assistance provided to those affected by conflict, often facilitated by a ceasefire to ensure safe delivery.
More Matches with Short Explanation:
- Peacekeeping: The maintenance of peace by neutral forces, which may be deployed after a ceasefire to help ensure its success.
- Cease: To stop or bring to an end; the first part of the word “ceasefire.”
- Fire: In this context, refers to gunfire or military attacks; the second part of the word “ceasefire.”
Antonyms:
- Hostilities: Active fighting or conflict, the opposite of a ceasefire.
- Combat: The act of engaging in battle or armed conflict, the opposite of halting it.
- War: A state of ongoing conflict, often involving continuous fighting, the opposite of a ceasefire.