Black Rod

American  

noun

1. (in England) an official of the Order of the Garter and chief ceremonial usher of the House of Lords: so called from the rod carried as the symbol of office.

2. a similar official in British colonial and Commonwealth legislatures.

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Black Rod British  

noun

1. (in Britain) an officer of the House of Lords and of the Order of the Garter, whose main duty is summoning the Commons at the opening and proroguing of Parliament

2. a similar officer in any of certain other legislatures

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Etymology

Origin of Black Rod

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

Accepting the role of Black Rod in 2017, she said: "I am both deeply honoured and delighted to be invited to take up the role."

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

Who is Black Rod and what do they do in Parliament?

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

They then have to knock three times on the door with the rod to gain entry before it is opened, and MPs follow Black Rod back to the House of Lords to hear the speech.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

Black Rod is one of the most senior officers in the House of Lords, external, and participates in major ceremonial events in the Palace of Westminster.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

Accordingly the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod was sent, and soon a knocking was heard at the door of the Senate Chamber, and the Governor was informed that the members waited without.

From The Youth's Companion Volume LII, Number 11, Thursday, March 13, 1879 by Various