Congressman
/ˈkɒŋɡrəsmən/
Definitions
2 meaningsA male member of a congress, especially the U.S. House of Representatives.
/ˈkɒŋɡrəsmən/
A member of the United States House of Representatives.
The congressman from California introduced a new bill.
💡 Simply: Imagine a grown-up who helps make the rules for the country, like a person who helps make decisions about what to do. The word 'congressman' is used for the people who work in the government making these decisions.
👶 For kids: A grown-up who helps make laws for the country.
More Examples
The committee questioned the congressman about his recent statements.
Local residents contacted their congressman to voice their concerns.
How It's Used
"The congressman voted against the proposed bill."
"Several congressmen were interviewed about the new economic policy."
A male member of any national legislative body.
/ˈkɒŋɡrəsmən/
A member of any national legislature.
The congressman from Texas sponsored a new bill.
💡 Simply: A person who works to make the laws of a country.
👶 For kids: A person in charge of making new laws.
More Examples
The committee heard testimony from the congressman.
How It's Used
"The new laws were supported by many congressmen."
From the word "Congress" (referring to a formal meeting) + "-man" (originally indicating a male member). The term reflects the historical dominance of men in political roles.
The term 'congressman' has been used since the formation of the United States Congress, reflecting its origin in a system primarily comprised of male representatives. The term has been subject to modern adjustments.
Memory tip
Think of someone who is a 'man' of 'Congress'.