Closure

Definition

Closure refers to the act or process of closing something or bringing something to an end. It can also mean a sense of resolution or finality, especially after a significant event or loss.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkloʊʒər/
• Respelling: KLOH-zher

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkləʊʒə/
• Respelling: KLOH-zhuh

Etymology

The word "closure" comes from the Latin word "claudere," meaning "to close or shut." It entered Middle English through Old French "closure," maintaining its meaning related to closing or concluding something.

Derivatives

• Close (verb)
• Closed (adjective)
• Closing (noun)
• Reclose (verb)
• Enclosure (noun)

Synonyms

• Conclusion
• Termination
• Resolution

Antonyms

• Beginning
• Opening
• Initiation

Usage

The noun "closure" is frequently used in both literal and figurative contexts. For instance, it can refer to the act of physically closing a door or ending a business, as in "The factory’s closure affected hundreds of workers." It can also describe a psychological sense of finality or emotional resolution after a significant experience, such as "He sought closure after the loss of his loved one."

Related Terms

• Finality: The quality of being finished or settled.
• Conclusion: The end or finish of an event or process.
• Termination: The action of bringing something to an end.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of closing or bringing to an end: Refers to the physical or metaphorical act of ending something.
  • Example: "The closure of the highway caused traffic delays."
• A sense of resolution or emotional finality: Refers to emotional closure following a significant life event or trauma.
  • Example: "Talking to her gave me a sense of closure after the argument."