English · Culture & Society
parliament
/ˈpɑː.lə.mənt/
[/ˈpɑː.lə.mənt/]
national legislative body
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The supreme law-making assembly of a country, made up of elected and sometimes appointed members. It debates issues and passes laws.
Example
Members of parliament debated the new climate law for hours before finally voting on it.
Members of parliament debated the new climate law for hours before finally voting on it.
Etymology
From Old French 'parlement' (a speaking, conference), from 'parler' (to speak).
How & Where It’s Used
Used especially in British and Commonwealth political contexts.