Selectmen: meaning, definitions and examples

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selectmen

 

[ sɪˈlɛkt.mən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

government role

Selectmen are elected officials in town or local government, primarily in the United States. They are responsible for overseeing the administration of local governance and implementing policies at the community level.

Synonyms

local official, town councilor

Examples of usage

  • The selectmen met to discuss the new budget.
  • Residents voiced their concerns during the selectmen's meeting.
  • Selectmen play a crucial role in local governance.

Translations

Translations of the word "selectmen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 membros do conselho

🇮🇳 चुनाव अधिकारी

🇩🇪 Wahlbeamte

🇮🇩 anggota dewan

🇺🇦 члени комісії

🇵🇱 członkowie rady

🇯🇵 選挙管理者

🇫🇷 membres du conseil

🇪🇸 miembros del consejo

🇹🇷 seçim görevlileri

🇰🇷 선거 관리인

🇸🇦 أعضاء المجلس

🇨🇿 členové rady

🇸🇰 členovia rady

🇨🇳 选举官员

🇸🇮 člani sveta

🇮🇸 ráðgjafar

🇰🇿 кеңес мүшелері

🇬🇪 კომიტეტის წევრები

🇦🇿 şura üzvləri

🇲🇽 miembros del consejo

Word origin

The term 'selectman' has its roots in the Old English word 'selectian', which means to choose or elect. Historically, selectmen were appointed to oversee local affairs and represent the interest of the townspeople. The usage of selectman became prominent in New England during the 17th century, with the establishment of town meetings as a form of direct democracy. The role of selectmen evolved over time, adapting to changes in governance structures and community needs. While the title remains significant in many areas, the term 'select Board' is increasingly used to include all genders and promote a more inclusive representation in local government.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,317, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.