clause

noun

1
: a group of words containing a subject and predicate and functioning as a member of a complex (see complex entry 2 sense 1b(2)) or compound (see compound entry 3 sense 3b) sentence
The sentence "When it rained they went inside" consists of two clauses: "when it rained" and "they went inside."
2
: a separate section of a discourse (see discourse entry 1 sense 2) or writing
specifically : a distinct article in a formal document
a clause in a contract

Examples of clause in a Sentence

The sentence “When it rained they went inside” consists of two clauses: “when it rained” and “they went inside.” a clause in a will
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The clause has been included in government contracts for decades, according to NPR. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 The Trump administration has removed a clause from federal contracts that banned segregated facilities like water fountains and restrooms, continuing its push to end race-conscious policies in the government. Essence News Editors, Essence, 20 Mar. 2025 His attorneys on Thursday asked a federal court to compel the government to return him to Virginia, suggesting that he was rounded up on the basis of his speech on Palestinian rights and that that violated the due process clause and the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Chloe Atkins, NBC News, 20 Mar. 2025 Companies should include clauses in their contracts with third parties that allow for assessments of their sub-vendors and a right to audit. Richard Chambers, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clause

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin clausa close of a rhetorical period, from Latin, feminine of clausus, past participle of claudere to close — more at close entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clause was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clause. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

clause

noun
1
: a separate distinct part of an article or document
a clause in a will
2
: a group of words having its own subject and predicate but forming only part of a compound or complex sentence (as "when it rained" or "they went inside" in the sentence "when it rained, they went inside")

Legal Definition

clause

noun
: a distinct section of a writing
specifically : a distinct article, stipulation, or proviso in a formal document
a no-strike clause in the collective bargaining agreement
clausal adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on clause

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