legislature
UK: /ˈledʒ.ɪ.slə.tʃər/ | US: /ˈledʒ.ɪ.sleɪ.tʃər/
n. a group of people with the power to make or change laws in a country or region
n. the building or institution where such a group meets
The word "legislature" traces back to Latin roots. "Legis" derives from "lex" (law), while "lat" comes from "latus," the past participle of "ferre" (to carry). Combined with the suffix "-ure," it literally means "a body that carries or enacts laws." The term evolved in English during the 17th century to describe governing bodies responsible for creating legislation, reflecting its Latin roots in legal and political systems.
The state legislature passed a new environmental protection bill.
Members of the legislature debated the proposed tax reforms.
The governor vetoed a bill approved by the legislature.
The national legislature meets twice a year to review laws.
Public protests urged the legislature to address healthcare disparities.