Bicameral: meaning, definitions and examples
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bicameral
[ ˌbaɪˈkæm.ər.əl ]
government structure
The term 'bicameral' refers to a type of legislative body that consists of two separate chambers or houses. This structure is often used to create checks and balances within the legislative process. In a bicameral system, legislation typically must be approved by both chambers before becoming law. This approach aims to prevent the concentration of power and encourages broader representation of different interests. Many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, employ a bicameral system in their government.
Synonyms
dual legislature, dual-chambered, two-chambered.
Examples of usage
- The U.S. Congress is a bicameral legislature, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- Many states have a bicameral legislature to ensure diverse viewpoints.
- A bicameral system can help limit hasty legislation.
Translations
Translations of the word "bicameral" in other languages:
🇵🇹 bicameral
🇮🇳 द chambers
🇩🇪 zwei Kammern
🇮🇩 bicameral
🇺🇦 двопалатний
🇵🇱 dwuizbowy
🇯🇵 二院制
🇫🇷 bicaméral
🇪🇸 bicameral
🇹🇷 iki meclisli
🇰🇷 양원제
🇸🇦 ثنائي الغرف
🇨🇿 bicamerální
🇸🇰 dvojkomorový
🇨🇳 两院制
🇸🇮 dvodomni
🇮🇸 tvöfaldur
🇰🇿 екі палаталы
🇬🇪 ორ პალატიანი
🇦🇿 iki palatalı
🇲🇽 bicameral
Etymology
The word 'bicameral' is derived from the prefix 'bi-' meaning 'two' and the Latin 'camera,' meaning 'room' or 'chamber.' It began to be used in English during the 19th century to describe governmental structures that have two distinct legislative bodies. The concept of bicameralism has its roots in ancient Roman governance and has evolved over time. The framers of the United States Constitution were influenced by the idea of a bicameral legislature to provide a system of checks and balances, ensuring that no single entity could dominate the law-making process. Today, bicameral systems can be found in many democratic nations around the world, each adapting the concept to fit its unique political landscape.