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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of interpellation¹

1520–30; < Latin interpellātiōn- (stem of interpellātiō ) interruption. See interpellate, -ion

Example Sentences

A lounger who stood by luckily counteracted the bad effect of the interpellation.

From Project Gutenberg

In spite of Rouher, by a secret agreement with Ollivier the right of interpellation was restored to the Chambers.

From Project Gutenberg

"But it is a good thing to do," the old lady went on, without noticing his interpellation.

From Project Gutenberg

In any event, there is no debate, and in this respect the English practice differs from the French "interpellation."

From Project Gutenberg

Now, however, he is menaced with an interpellation on the Austro-German understanding.

From Project Gutenberg