Congressional
ˌkɑːŋˈɡreʃənəl
Definitions
Relating to a congress, especially the United States Congress, or the activities, functions, or members of a congress.
ˌkɑːŋˈɡreʃənəl
Relating to a congress or a legislative body.
The congressional session was adjourned due to the upcoming elections.
💡 Simply: Like, imagine a big meeting of people who make the rules for a country. Anything connected to that meeting, or the people in it, is 'congressional'! For example, if you read about a vote in the meeting, that's a 'congressional' vote.
👶 For kids: It means something that has to do with a group of people who make laws for a country.
More Examples
She has a strong interest in congressional affairs.
The president's speech addressed key congressional concerns.
How It's Used
"Congressional hearings often address important national issues."
"The congressional committee voted to pass the bill."
From Latin *congressus* (a meeting, assembly), from *congerere* (to bring together) + -al (suffix indicating relating to). The term became associated with the legislative body of the United States.
Used since the late 18th century in the United States, initially to describe actions or proceedings related to the Continental Congress.
Memory tip
Think of 'congress' and add the adjective suffix '-al' to remember its connection to legislative bodies.