A method of putting an end to debate and securing an immediate vote upon a measure before a legislative body. It is similar in effect to the previous question. It was first introduced into the British House of Commons in 1882. The French word clôture was originally applied to this proceeding.

a rule for limiting or ending debate in a deliberative body

terminate debate by calling for a vote; "debate was closured"; "cloture the discussion"

the question "that the question be now put", i.e. that, although there are still members speaking or wishing to speak, the debate should be ended and the House proceed immediately to a decision. The Speaker has discretion as to whether to accept the closure and, if opposed, it requires not just a majority but also at least 100 members voting in favour; otherwise, the original debate is resumed. If the closure is agreed to, the question is then put immediately on the matter previously under debate.

A procedure forbidding further adjournment of debate on any motion or on any stage of a bill and requiring that the motion come to a vote at the end of the sitting in which it is invoked.

The procedure by which a debate may be terminated by a majority decision of the house, even though all members wishing to speak may not have had the opportunity to do so.