armistic

An armistice is a temporary cessation of hostilities between enemies in a war or conflict. The term originates from the French word "armistice," which means "stop fighting." Armistices are often used as a negotiating tool to allow for peace talks or to gain time for strategic planning. They can be unilateral, where one side stops fighting without the other's consent, or bilateral, where both sides agree to a temporary halt in fighting.

Armisticies are distinct from a ceasefire, which is a more permanent halt in fighting, often leading to a peace agreement. Unlike a ceasefire, an armistice is typically temporary and is often followed by a resumption of hostilities if a peace agreement is not reached.

The most famous example of an armistice is the Armistice of 11 November 1918, which marked the end of World War I. This armistice was signed between the Allies and Germany and went into effect at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month, hence the name. The armistice was followed by the Treaty of Versailles, which formally ended the war.

Armisticies can also occur in non-military contexts, such as in labor disputes or political conflicts, where both sides agree to a temporary pause in their differences to negotiate a resolution.