congressman
UK: ˈkɒŋɡrəsmən | US: ˈkɑːŋɡrəsmən
n. a male member of a congress, especially the U.S. House of Representatives
congressman = congress<assembly> + man<male person>
- congress: Derived from Latin congressus (a meeting, assembly), from con- (together) + gradi (to walk). Historically, it referred to a formal gathering of delegates.
- man: From Old English mann (human being, person), later specialized to mean "male adult."
Etymology Origin:
The term congressman emerged in American English (late 18th century) to denote male representatives in the U.S. Congress. The word combines congress (reflecting the legislative body's collective function) with man (gender-specific at the time). While congress retains its Latin roots in "coming together," man reflects societal norms of the era, now evolving with gender-neutral alternatives like congressperson.
The congressman delivered a speech on healthcare reform.
Voters reelected the congressman for a third term.
A local newspaper interviewed the congressman about his policies.
The congressman proposed a bill to improve infrastructure.
Critics accused the congressman of ignoring environmental concerns.