Definition

A legal rule that stops someone from arguing something different from what they have previously said or done, especially in court.

Example

The court ruled that the defendant was bound by the principle of estoppel and could not deny the agreement made earlier.

Conversation

I was reading about legal terms and came across estoppel today.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It’s about preventing someone from denying something they previously said was true, like a legal bar.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know there was a term for that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Estoppel originates from Old French 'estoppe' (meaning a stop or obstruction) and is derived from the Latin 'stuppa' (meaning tow or a plug). The term refers to a legal principle that prevents a person from arguing something contrary to a claim made or implied by their previous actions or statements.

Memory Tip

Think of 'estoppe' as a 'stop' or 'obstruction' that prevents someone from going back on their word — that's why estoppel means you can't contradict what you've previously stated.

Visually Confused Words