phrases, sayings, proverbs and idioms at

The meaning and origin of the expression: Act of God

Act of God

Other phrases about:

What's the meaning of the phrase 'Act of God'?

An act which is accepted legally as being outside human control.

What's the origin of the phrase 'Act of God'?

The phrase 'act of God' occurs in religious texts dating back to the 13th century, specifically referring to acts that God has undertaken. The 'act of God' referred to here is that which is used in legal and insurance circles when discussing any act which is outside human control and therefore not the responsibility of any individual or corporation. The term was first used in this way in the mid-19th century. Peter Simmonds' Dictionary of Trade Products, 1858, uses the term:

"Force-majeure, a French commercial term for unavoidable accidents in the transport of goods, from superior force, the act of God, etc."

Act of GodIn July 1803, The Times included this legal ruling given in a court case by Lord Ellenborough, which is in terms that we are now familiar with from our own household insurance policies:

"By Common Law, Carriers are insurers against every loss of property entrusted to their care, except losses arising from the Act of God, or the King's enemies." [treason]

Gary Martin - the author of the phrases.org.uk website.

By Gary Martin

Gary Martin is a writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Browse phrases beginning with:
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ Full List