Burgess: meaning, definitions and examples
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burgess
[ ˈbər(j)əs ]
government official
A burgess is an elected representative to the governing body of a town or city in certain English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and parts of the United States. Historically, burgesses were often members of a municipal council or a representative in the House of Commons. The term reflects a role in local governance and civic duties within a borough.
Synonyms
councilman, official, representative.
Examples of usage
- The burgess attended the council meeting to discuss local issues.
- In medieval England, the burgess played a crucial role in the development of towns.
- Every town held elections for the burgess to represent the citizens' interests.
- The burgess brought up the concern of infrastructure funding at the assembly.
- Being elected as a burgess was a significant honor in the community.
Etymology
The term 'burgess' has its roots in Middle English, deriving from the Old French word 'burgeis', which meant 'inhabitant of a town', and is linked to the Latin 'burgus', meaning 'fortified town' or 'castle'. Initially, 'burgess' referred to a freeman of a borough or town, signifying a person who had the right to participate in municipal matters. This social and political status became significant during the medieval period, particularly in England, where the role of a burgess evolved to include responsibilities in local governance, representation, and civic participation. Over time, burgesses gained various rights, including the power to vote on local issues and make decisions affecting their communities. In America, the term continues to denote an elected official in a borough or town, carrying its historical weight from European traditions.