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• executive council
  executive council

  noun

  a council having the highest executive authority.
• Executive Council
  Executive Council

  noun

  (in Australia and New Zealand) a body consisting of ministers of the Crown presided over by the Governor or Governor-General that formally approves Cabinet decisions, etc

executive council

American  

noun

1. a council having the highest executive authority.

2. a council appointed to give advice to the head of a government.

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Executive Council British  

noun

1. (in Australia and New Zealand) a body consisting of ministers of the Crown presided over by the Governor or Governor-General that formally approves Cabinet decisions, etc

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Etymology

Origin of executive council

An Americanism dating back to 1770–80

Example Sentences

"Anyone who knew him knew that he was the very best of us," said Alex Ryvchin from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.

From Barron's • Dec. 17, 2025

“The country has changed very significantly in the last two years,” said Robert Goot, deputy president of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 15, 2025

Ronny Tong, a member of Hong Kong's Executive Council, disputed the suggestion that Hong Kongers are being suppressed.

From BBC • Dec. 4, 2025

Also running in the Sept. 10 Democratic primary are Colin Van Ostern, a former member of the governor’s Executive Council, and state Sen. Becky Whitley.

From Seattle Times • May 9, 2024

In the period leading up to the election, a Transitional Executive Council with members from each party would ensure the right climate for the elections.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela