What is "cessation of arms"

Cessation \Ces*sa"tion\ (s[e^]s*s[=a]"sh[u^]n), n. [F. cessation, L. cessatio, fr. cessare. See Cease.] A ceasing or discontinuance, as of action, whether temporary or final; a stop; as, a cessation of the war.

The temporary cessation of the papal iniquities.
--Motley.

The day was yearly observed for a festival by cessation from labor.
--Sir J. Hayward.

Cessation of arms (Mil.), an armistice, or truce, agreed to by the commanders of armies, to give time for a capitulation, or for other purposes.

Syn: Stop; rest; stay; pause; discontinuance; intermission; interval; respite; interruption; recess; remission. [1913 Webster] ||