Parliament

Definition

Parliament is a noun that refers to a legislative body of government, typically consisting of elected representatives who deliberate and decide on laws, policies, and governance. It is commonly associated with systems of democratic governance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɑːr.lə.mənt/
• Respelling: PAR-luh-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɑː.lɪə.mənt/
• Respelling: PAH-lee-uh-muhnt

Etymology

The word "parliament" originates from the Old French "parlement," meaning "speaking" or "discussion," derived from "parler" (to speak). It traces back to the Latin "parabola," meaning "speech" or "discourse." It was first used in England in the 13th century to describe assemblies convened for deliberation.

Derivatives

• Parliamentary (adjective)
• Parliamentarian (noun)
• Parliamentarism (noun)
• Parliamental (adjective, rare)
• Parliament-like (adjective)

Synonyms

• Legislature
• Assembly
• Congress

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "parliament" is commonly used in political contexts to refer to legislative bodies. For example, "The British Parliament is located at Westminster" or "The bill was debated in parliament for several weeks."

Related Terms

• Democracy: A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives.
• Legislation: Laws collectively made by a legislative body.
• Constitution: A set of fundamental principles or laws governing a state.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A legislative body in a democratic government: Refers to the institution responsible for making and passing laws.
  • Example: "The bill was introduced in parliament for consideration."
• An assembly of representatives: Describes a group convened to discuss and deliberate matters of governance.
  • Example: "The country's parliament consists of two chambers."
• A historical term for advisory councils: Refers to assemblies in medieval Europe that advised monarchs.
  • Example: "Medieval parliaments were precursors to modern legislative bodies."