The term CLOSING OF DEBATE is often used in the context of parliamentary procedure. It is a process by which debate on a particular motion is ended and a vote is taken. The most common way to achieve this is through a process known as cloture, which requires a supermajority of votes in order to pass. Cloture is a French word meaning 'CLOSURE' or 'ENDING'. It is used to limit the amount of time spent debating a particular issue and to ensure that a vote is taken in a timely manner.