armistice
UK: ˈɑːmɪstɪs | US: ˈɑːrmɪstɪs
n. a formal agreement between warring parties to stop fighting; a temporary ceasefire.
armistice = arm<weapon> + istice<stopping>
- arm: From Latin arma (weapons, tools). Retains the core meaning of weaponry or armed conflict.
- stice: From Latin -stitium (a stopping, related to stare "to stand"). Implies a halt or pause.
Etymology Origin:
The word armistice emerged in the early 18th century from French armistice, itself derived from Latin arma (weapons) + -stitium (a stopping). It literally means "a standing still of arms," reflecting the temporary suspension of hostilities. The term gained prominence after World War I with the "Armistice of 1918," now commemorated as Armistice Day (Veterans Day in the US). The morphemes vividly capture the duality of conflict (arm) and peace (stice).
The armistice was signed at dawn, ending four years of brutal warfare.
Negotiations for an armistice began after both sides suffered heavy losses.
Armistice Day ceremonies honor those who served in World War I.
The fragile armistice collapsed within months, reigniting the conflict.
Historians debate whether the armistice terms contributed to future tensions.