SuaviloquyToday’s word

truce

Truce, n.

Etymology: [OE. trewes, triwes, treowes, pl. of trewe a truce, properly, pledge of fidelity, truth, AS. treów fidelity, faith, troth. See True.]

1. (Mil.)

A suspension of arms by agreement of the commanders of opposing forces; a temporary cessation of hostilities, for negotiation or other purpose; an armistice.

2. Hence, intermission of action, pain, or contest; temporary cessation; short quiet. Where he may likeliest find Truce to his restless thoughts. Milton. Flag of truce (Mil.), a white flag carried or exhibited by one of the hostile parties, during the flying of which hostilities are suspended. -- Truce of God, a suspension of arms promulgated by the church, which occasionally took place in the Middle Ages, putting a stop to private hostilities at or within certain periods.

Shades of meaning

Fernald lists truce only as an antonym, under battle.

He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.

Synonyms

none given

Antonyms