Council Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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council
[ˈkaʊnsl ]
Definitions
local government
A council is a group of people who are elected to make decisions or give advice on a particular subject, to represent a particular group of people, or to run a particular organization.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The council meets once a month to discuss local issues.
- The council has approved the construction of a new school in the area.
meeting
A council is also a meeting of people who are elected to make decisions or give advice on a particular subject.
Examples of usage
- The council will convene tomorrow to discuss the budget proposal.
- The council members are expected to attend the meeting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Government
- Many countries have councils that help make local laws and regulations, such as city councils.
- Some organizations, like the United Nations, have councils that handle specific topics, like security or economic development.
- In the corporate world, a board of directors is often referred to as a council when it focuses on guiding the company's future.
Culture
- In many indigenous cultures, councils of elders guide communities, making decisions based on wisdom and tradition.
- The Council of Nicea, convened in 325 AD, brought together Christian leaders to establish key doctrines of the faith.
- Councils often reflect diversity, as they aim to ensure different voices and perspectives are heard in decision-making.
Education
- Student councils in schools empower young people to voice their opinions, organize events, and enact changes.
- Councils can foster leadership skills among students by giving them responsibilities like organizing school functions.
- Educational councils often advise on curriculum changes, ensuring that learning materials meet community and educational needs.
Origin of 'council'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'conseil' which is derived from the Latin 'consilium', meaning 'advice'.
- In medieval times, councils were formed to advise kings and rulers on important decisions.
- The idea of gathering people for advice can be traced back to ancient Rome, where councils were critical in decision-making.
The word 'council' originated from the Latin word 'concilium', which means assembly or gathering. It has been used in various forms throughout history to refer to groups of people coming together to discuss and make decisions. Councils have played a significant role in governance and decision-making processes in many cultures and societies.