Parliamentary - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

'Parliamentary' describes anything related to a parliament, which is a legislative body that makes laws. It refers to the system of government where a parliament holds the power to create and pass legislation. Think of it as the way a country is run, where elected representatives debate and decide on laws. It is a system designed to represent the will of the people. The exact structure and function of a parliament can vary from country to country, but the core principle remains the same.

Etymology

The word 'parliamentary' comes from the Old French word 'parlement,' meaning 'a discussion' or 'a conference.' 'Parlement' is derived from 'parler,' meaning 'to speak.' Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to a legislative assembly. The addition of the suffix '-ary' indicates something relating to or characteristic of. The etymology shows how talking and discussion are at the heart of what parliaments do. So, 'parliamentary' essentially means 'relating to a speaking assembly that makes laws.'

Related Words

Examples

• "The country adopted a parliamentary system of government."
• "The debate followed parliamentary procedure."
• "The committee conducted a parliamentary inquiry into the matter."
• "The party won a majority in the parliamentary elections."

Encouragement

Understanding how parliamentary systems work is crucial for being an informed citizen. Learn about your country's government and participate in the democratic process. Your voice matters! 🗣️

Learn More

📖 Learn more on Wikipedia