What does moratorium mean?
A moratorium is a temporary suspension or postponement of something that would normally happen. It is most often used in formal or institutional contexts, particularly when an authority temporarily halts construction, trading, debt payments, recruitment, or the operation of a rule. The word suggests that the suspended activity may resume later, although it does not necessarily guarantee that it will. A moratorium can be imposed by law, introduced by agreement, or agreed to by parties seeking time to resolve a dispute or prepare for change. Its implications depend on context: in public administration it may allow review, in finance it may provide temporary relief, and in diplomacy it may pause negotiations or hostilities. Because “moratorium” gives a precise, formal name to a temporary halt, it is useful in discussions of deadlines, legal obligations, and public policy.
nounA temporary suspension or postponement of an activity, process, law, or legal obligation. A moratorium may be imposed by agreement or by an authority with the power to defer an action for a specified period.
- A temporary suspension of an activity, process, or policy.
- A legally recognized postponement of an obligation, such as a deferment of debt or loan payments.
"The city declared a moratorium on new construction until the revised traffic plan was completed."
"The council imposed a moratorium on the demolition of the historic building while preservation options were considered."
"The government introduced a moratorium on mortgage repayments for households affected by the disaster."
“Moratoria” is the standard plural in formal and legal usage; “moratoriums” is also occasionally used but is less common.
"The two moratoria gave indebted institutions additional time to restructure their finances."
A moratorium is a pause written into law: it can halt an activity, suspend a deadline, or temporarily relieve an obligation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does moratorium come from?
The word entered English in the early 17th century from New Latin “moratorium,” meaning a delay or postponement. It was formed from Latin “morari,” “to delay” or “linger,” a word generally connected with “mos,” meaning custom or manner. Related Latin forms developed along separate semantic paths: “moratory” retains the sense of postponement, while “moral” and “morose” reflect older ideas connected with manner, conduct, or character.
Related word forms
How moratorium is actually used
The word is formal and is especially common in legal, political, financial, and administrative contexts. It usually implies a pause with a definite or expected end, rather than a permanent prohibition; “moratoria” is the standard plural.
Easily confused with moratorium
A moratorium is a temporary suspension, whereas moratory is an adjective meaning that postpones or delays something.