congress

A group of elected representatives that debates and makes a country’s laws.

• Congress passed the law.
• The president asked Congress for more money.
• Members of the congress debated the new tax.

Similar words: legislature, parliament

Common phrases: congress member, congress vote, congress session

A large formal meeting where people discuss a particular subject or make decisions.

• The congress opens on Monday.
• Doctors attended an international congress in Madrid.
• Delegates debated the proposal at the annual congress.

Similar words: conference, assembly

Common phrases: annual congress, international congress, attend a congress

An organization made up of smaller organizations or representatives of different groups.

• The congress represents several workers’ unions.
• More associations joined the national congress.
• The congress speaks for its member organizations.

Similar words: federation, confederation

Common phrases: trade union congress, national congress

To gather with other people for a formal meeting.

• The delegates congressed in the hall.
• Representatives will congress to discuss the dispute.
• The leaders congressed with their allies.

Similar words: meet, assemble

Common phrases: congress with someone, congress in council