vis major Hear it!

vis major Definition

vis ma·jor (vis mā′jər)

noun

act of God

Etymology: L, greater force

vis major Law Definition

n

Latin

A superior force; the term is used in civil cases to denote an act of God. A loss vis major results from natural causes, such as a hurricane, tornado, or earthquake, and without the intervention of human beings. It is a loss that could not have been prevented by diligence or by having taken precautions. See also force majeure.