Private Member

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) British. a member of a legislative body, especially of the House of Commons, who has no special duties and is not a member of the ministry.

private member

noun

1. a member of a legislative assembly, such as the House of Commons, not having an appointment in the government

Word History and Origins

Origin of Private Member¹

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

When a private member has in charge a Bill or resolution, much depends on the opportunity he secures for bringing it forward.

From Project Gutenberg

The bill was introduced by a private member, Mr. Bell, who has always taken a keen interest in the destruction of this pest.

From Project Gutenberg

Is not prayer to the Church what the bayonet is to the soldier—that which the private member has to use?

From Project Gutenberg

On a certain Tuesday night, the debate on a private member's bill unexpectedly collapsed, and the House rose early.

From Project Gutenberg

The letter to Philemon, a private member of the church in Colosse, naturally stands last of all.

From Project Gutenberg