Lawmakers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lawmakers
[ˈlɔːˌmeɪkəz ]
Definition
government
Lawmakers are elected officials who are responsible for creating, amending, and repealing laws.
Synonyms
congressman, legislator, senator.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lawmakers |
General term for individuals involved in creating and passing laws. Appropriate for use when referring to individuals at any legislative level without specifying the body or position.
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| legislator |
Broad term similar to 'lawmakers' but often used more formally. Can refer to someone in a legislative body at any level, including national, state, or local government.
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| congressman |
Typically refers specifically to a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Usually used when discussing American politics and legislation. Often gendered towards male representatives, with 'congresswoman' used for females.
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| senator |
Specifically refers to a member of the Senate, which can be at the national or state level. Often used in contexts discussing upper chambers of legislatures and significant policy-making roles.
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Examples of usage
- Lawmakers debated the new bill in parliament.
- The lawmakers voted to pass the legislation.
- The lawmakers introduced a new proposal for tax reform.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In the Roman Republic, lawmakers, known as senators, held significant power over legislation, influencing governance.
- The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, was a pivotal moment in history that limited the powers of the monarch and paved the way for modern lawmakers.
Types of Lawmakers
- Lawmakers can be elected (like congress members) or appointed (like judges), determining how laws are made and enforced in different systems.
- In many countries, there are two houses of lawmakers, such as the Senate and the House of Representatives, working together to create laws.
Cultural Impact
- In popular culture, lawmakers are often portrayed in films and television as either heroes or villains, reflecting society's complex relationship with law and justice.
- The role of lawmakers has evolved, and many contemporary issues, like climate change and civil rights, are now central topics of legislative debate.
Contemporary Issues
- Current lawmakers often face challenges like public opinion and lobbyists, influencing how they create laws and govern effectively.
- The use of technology is changing how lawmakers work, with digital platforms allowing for more citizen engagement and participation in the law-making process.
Origin of 'lawmakers'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated from combining 'law,' which comes from Old English 'lagu' meaning a rule or guideline, and 'maker' meaning someone who creates.
- In ancient societies, those who established laws were often leaders or kings, showcasing the intertwining of power and order.
The term 'lawmaker' dates back to the early 19th century and is derived from the combination of 'law' and 'maker'. Lawmakers play a crucial role in the functioning of a democratic society by creating and amending laws that govern the behavior of citizens and institutions. Throughout history, lawmakers have been instrumental in shaping the legal framework of nations and ensuring justice and order within society.
See also: law, lawbook, lawbreaker, lawbreaking, lawful, lawfully, lawfulness, lawgiver, lawless, lawlessness, lawmaker, lawmaking, lawman, laws, lawsuit, lawyer, lawyers, outlaw, unlawful, unlawfully.