councilman
UK: ˈkaʊn.səl.mən | US: ˈkaʊn.səl.mən
n. an elected member of a local government council, typically in the U.S.
The word "councilman" combines "council," derived from the Latin concilium (a gathering or assembly), with "man," from Old English mann (person). The term reflects the role of an individual (traditionally male) serving in a deliberative or governing body. Over time, "councilman" became standardized in American English to denote elected local officials, though gender-neutral alternatives like "council member" are now increasingly used.
The councilman proposed a new policy to improve public transportation.
Residents voiced their concerns at the councilman’s town hall meeting.
She became the first female councilman in the city’s history.
The councilman voted against the budget due to insufficient funding for schools.
After serving for 12 years, the councilman announced his retirement.