interpellation

[ in-ter-puh-ley-shuhn, in-tur-puh- ]

noun

1. a procedure in some legislative bodies of asking a government official to explain an act or policy, sometimes leading, in parliamentary government, to a vote of confidence or a change of government.
2. Sociology. a system of maintaining power over a population by imposing beliefs, values, and norms on that population rather than using force.

Word History and Origins

Origin of interpellation¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin interpellātiōn-, stem of interpellātiō “interruption.” See interpellate, -ion

Example Sentences

Now interpellations happen all over the place, whenever someone addresses someone else and seeks to purvey an idea or prompt a course of action.

From Salon

It would also expand the president’s authority over the judiciary, and eliminates parliament’s right to interpellation, or the ability to submit formal questions on the government’s actions to the executive.

From Time

The ministers had to answer their French "interpellations" in French.

From Project Gutenberg

The arrangements were made on behalf of the ministry by the Grand Vizier, Hilmi Pasha, and the matter was then brought up under interpellation in the Parliament.

From Project Gutenberg

A member's redress in 56 such instances is to rag the president at the time when, according to custom, interpellations are in order; and as a rule he avails himself of this opportunity without mercy.

From Project Gutenberg