truce
UK: truːs | US: truːs
n. a temporary agreement between enemies or opponents to stop fighting or arguing
truce = tru<true> + ce<noun suffix>
- tru (from Old English trēow, meaning "faith, pledge, agreement")
- ce (a nominal suffix, often indicating a state or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "truce" originates from Middle English trewes, the plural of trewe (meaning "faith, pledge"), derived from Old English trēow. It evolved from the concept of a "pledge of truth" between opposing parties, reflecting a temporary cessation of hostilities based on mutual trust. Over time, the plural form trewes was reinterpreted as a singular noun, solidifying its modern meaning of a ceasefire or temporary peace.
The two armies agreed to a 24-hour truce to evacuate the wounded.
During the holiday season, the rival gangs declared a truce.
The negotiators proposed a truce to allow for humanitarian aid.
A fragile truce was broken when one side violated the terms.
The truce lasted only a few days before fighting resumed.