conscript fathers

American  

plural noun

1. the senators of ancient Rome.

2. any legislators.

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conscript fathers British  

plural noun

1. literary august legislators, esp Roman senators

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Etymology

Origin of conscript fathers

First recorded in 1525–35

Example Sentences

I. I wish, O conscript fathers, that the immortal gods had granted to us to return thanks to Servius Sulpicius while alive, rather than thus to devise honours for him now that he is dead.

From The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, Volume 4 by Cicero, Marcus Tullius

Our injuries she cannot avenge, nor can any but yourselves avenge them, conscript fathers.

From The History of Rome, Books 27 to 36 by Livius, Titus

I request, conscript fathers, that you will hear without offence what I am reluctant to mention.

From The History of Rome, Books 27 to 36 by Livius, Titus

I have explained to you, O conscript fathers, how I had intended to be here in January, so as to be of some service to the Republic.

From The Life of Cicero Volume II. by Trollope, Anthony

I render thanks to the immortal gods, conscript fathers, for that they have confirmed your judgment as regards me.

From The Great Events by Famous Historians, Volume 04 by Horne, Charles F. (Charles Francis)