Congressional

Definition

Congressional refers to something related to a formal meeting or assembly, especially pertaining to a congress, which is a legislative body. In the United States, it specifically refers to anything associated with the U.S. Congress, including its actions, procedures, or members.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈɡrɛʃənl/
• Respelling: kuhn-GRESH-uh-nl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈɡrɛʃənl/
• Respelling: kuhn-GRESH-uh-nl

Etymology

The word "congressional" comes from the Latin word "congressus," which means "meeting" or "encounter." "Congressus" is the past participle of "congredi," meaning "to come together." It first appeared in English in the early 17th century, derived from the French word "congres." The adjective form, "congressional," developed in relation to formal legislative bodies, particularly the U.S. Congress.

Derivatives

• Congress (noun)
• Congressman (noun)
• Congresswoman (noun)
• Congressionalist (noun)
• Congressionalism (noun)

Synonyms

• Legislative
• Parliamentary
• Law-making

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The adjective "congressional" is primarily used in political contexts to describe matters related to a congress or a legislative body, particularly in reference to the United States Congress. For example, "congressional hearings" refers to official meetings held by members of Congress. It can also describe anything related to congressmen and congresswomen, such as "congressional campaigns" or "congressional districts."

Related Terms

• Legislation: Laws, considered collectively, enacted by a legislative body.
• Senate: A legislative or governing body, particularly the upper house of the U.S. Congress.
• House of Representatives: The lower house of the U.S. Congress, consisting of elected members representing districts.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to a congress or legislative body: Refers to something associated with the formal assembly of elected representatives, particularly the U.S. Congress.
  • Example: "The senator attended a congressional meeting to discuss the new bill."
• Relating to U.S. Congress: Specifically refers to matters or activities involving the United States Congress, including its members or actions.
  • Example: "The president delivered his annual congressional address."