noun

1. Gram. a group of words containing a subject and a finite verb, usually forming part of a compound or complex sentence: clauses may be joined by parataxis (The house is secluded; you will like it), by modified parataxis (The house is secluded, and you will like it), and by hypotaxis (Because the house is secluded, you will like it)
2. a particular article, stipulation, or provision in a formal or legal document

Etymology: OFr < ML clausa, for L clausula, a closing (in legal use, section or clause) < clausus, pp. of claudere, to close