legislature

[ lej-is-ley-cher ]

noun

1. a deliberative body of persons, usually elective, who are empowered to make, change, or repeal the laws of a country or state; the branch of government having the power to make laws, as distinguished from the executive and judicial branches of government.

legislature

/ ˈlɛdʒɪsˌleɪtʃə /

noun

1. a body of persons vested with power to make, amend, and repeal laws Compare executive judiciary

Other Words From

• sub·legis·lature noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of legislature¹

First recorded in 1670–80; legislat(or) + -ure

Example Sentences

Paxton led the appeal to the state Supreme Court when the legislature's subpoena created a question about the separation of powers between the state's branches of government.

From Salon

The legislature also refused to have Roberson appear virtually because he has autism and he is not familiar with modern technology after spending 20-plus years in prison.

From BBC

“Not one of my colleagues in the legislature voted against the bill because so many recognize this word is not a place name that belongs in California.”

From Los Angeles Times

Challenged on the expansion of the Senedd, the first minister said the legislature is "much smaller than other parliaments".

From BBC

Imagine trying to run New Jersey with a five-member legislature and no governor.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• body
• chamber
• house
• parliament