legislative council

noun

1. the upper house of a bicameral legislature.
2. a unicameral legislature in a British colony consisting of the governor, official members appointed by the governor, and unofficial members representing the Indigenous population.
3. a committee composed of members of both houses of a state legislature that meets between sessions to study particular problems and develop programs for the next session.

legislative council

noun

1. the upper chamber of certain bicameral legislatures, such as those of the Indian and Australian states
2. the unicameral legislature of certain colonies or dependent territories
3. (in the US) a committee composed of members of both chambers of a state legislature, that meets to discuss problems, construct a legislative programme, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of legislative council¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

By their constitution they had a governor, a legislative council, and a house of assembly.

From Project Gutenberg

Since the house would not make the legislative council elective, he proposed to abolish it altogether.

From Project Gutenberg

The governor is assisted by an executive council and by a nominated legislative council, which consists of at least three members.

From Project Gutenberg

Legislation is by ordinances made by the governor, with the assent of the legislative council.

From Project Gutenberg

The legislative council chamber is included in the custom-house.

From Project Gutenberg