First Known Use: 12th century
Dictionary
1council
noun coun·cil \ˈkau̇n(t)-səl\
: a group of people who are chosen to make rules, laws, or decisions about something
: a group of people who provide advice or guidance on something
Full Definition of COUNCIL
1
: an assembly or meeting for consultation, advice, or discussion
2
: a group elected or appointed as an advisory or legislative body
3
a : a usually administrative body b : an executive body whose members are equal in power and authority c : a governing body of delegates from local units of a federation
4
: deliberation in a council
5
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Origin of COUNCIL
Middle English counceil, from Anglo-French cunseil, cuncile, from Latin concilium, from com- + calare to call — more at low
Related to COUNCIL
- Synonyms
- assembly, congress, convention, convocation, meeting, gathering, get-together, huddle, powwow
Other Government and Politics Terms
2council
adjective
: of or relating to a council
: provided by a local government council for people to live in for low rent
Full Definition of COUNCIL
1
: used for councils especially by or with North American Indians <a council ground>
2
British : built, maintained, or operated by a local governing agency <council housing> <council flats>
See council defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of COUNCIL
14th century
Rhymes with COUNCIL
COUNCIL Defined for Kids
council
noun coun·cil \ˈkau̇n-səl\
Definition of COUNCIL for Kids
: a group of people appointed or elected to make laws or give advice <the city council>
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