cessation

noun

ces·​sa·​tion se-ˈsā-shən 

: a temporary or final ceasing (as of action) : stop

mutually agreed to a cessation of fighting

Synonyms of cessation

• halt
• ending
• conclusion
• end
• closure
• close
• termination
• discontinuance
• cease
• discontinuation

Examples of cessation in a Sentence

Relapses after cessation of treatment are common.

the cessation of the snowstorm was a relief

Recent Examples on the Web

That initial agreement included provisions on sanctions relief; the release of frozen assets; and a cessation of military operations, including in Lebanon. — Piper Hudspeth Blackburn, CNN Money, 26 Sep. 2026

But that was wartime—and the cessation of hostilities generated new complexities. — Scott W. Stern, The Atlantic, 17 Sep. 2026

There were also successful campaigns in Colorado and other states to increase the price of tobacco, a policy move proven to reduce smoking in adults and youth and fund prevention and cessation efforts. — Susan Morrisey, STAT, 15 Sep. 2026

Those commitments should be included in a framework agreement, signed by all sides, which outlines the core elements of an eventual peace and enables a cessation of hostilities. — Matt Waldman, Foreign Affairs, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cessacioun, from Middle French cessation, from Latin cessation-, cessatio delay, idleness, from cessare to delay, be idle — more at cease

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cessation

• ablation
• aeration
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

Kids Definition

cessation

noun

ces·​sa·​tion se-ˈsā-shən 

: a stopping of action