1
: a group of words containing a subject and predicate and functioning as a member of a complex (see complex entry 2 sense 1b(2)) or compound (see compound entry 3 sense 3b) sentence
The sentence "When it rained they went inside" consists of two clauses: "when it rained" and "they went inside."
2
: a separate section of a discourse (see discourse entry 1 sense 2) or writing
specifically
: a distinct article in a formal document
a clause in a contract
Examples of clause in a Sentence
The sentence “When it rained they went inside” consists of two clauses: “when it rained” and “they went inside.”
a clause in a will
Recent Examples on the Web
The spokesperson reiterated Altman’s sentiment that OpenAI is now removing the non-disparagement clauses from its exit paperwork, and is releasing former employees from these obligations.
—
Maxwell Zeff / Gizmodo, Quartz, 23 May 2024
Democrats say Trump brazenly ignored the clause as president as foreign government officials flocked to his hotels and properties.
—Farnoush Amiri, Twin Cities, 21 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for clause 
Maxwell Zeff / Gizmodo, Quartz, 23 May 2024
Democrats say Trump brazenly ignored the clause as president as foreign government officials flocked to his hotels and properties.
—Farnoush Amiri, Twin Cities, 21 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for clause
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'clause.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Dictionary Entries Near clause
Cite this Entry
“Clause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clause. Accessed 3 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
clause
noun1
: a separate distinct part of an article or document
a clause in a will
2
: a group of words having its own subject and predicate but forming only part of a compound or complex sentence (as "when it rained" or "they went inside" in the sentence "when it rained, they went inside")
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