Definition of Force majeure
Fr. In the law of insurance, superior or irresistible force. Such clause is common in construction contracts to protect the parties in the event that a part of the contract cannot be performed due to causes which are outside the control of the parties and could not be avoided by exercise of due care. An oil and gas lease clause that provides that the lessee will not be held to have breached the lease terms while the lessee is prevented by force majeure (literally, "superior force”) from performing. Typically, such clauses specifically indicate problems beyond the reasonable control of the lessee that will excuse performance. See also Act of God; Vis major
That's the definition of Force majeure in Black's Law Dictionary 6th Edition. Courtesy of Cekhukum.com.