backbencher

[bak-ben-cher, -ben-]

noun

1. any of the members of a legislature, especially of the House of Commons of Great Britain, but not including the leaders of the parties.

backbencher

/ ˈbækˈbɛntʃə /

noun

1. a Member of Parliament who does not hold office in the government or opposition

Word History and Origins

Origin of backbencher¹

First recorded in 1905–10; back bench + -er ¹

Example Sentences

One veteran backbencher said: "It's the worst kept secret in politics that Andy would love to be back in Parliament and of course he had his eyes laser focussed on the top job."

From BBC

But there is little sense this will appease the anger on Labour's backbenchers about the situation in Gaza, nor the calls for the government to go further.

From BBC

She has touted the deputy role as a position that would allow her to champion the role of backbenchers and activists without the constraints that bind a member of the cabinet such as Phillipson.

From BBC

Left-wing backbencher Bell Riberio-Addy said she had not secured the 80 MP nominations needed by 17:00 on Thursday to progress.

From BBC

In the Commons on Tuesday she said she agreed that Labour backbenchers should "resist the temptation to duck tough choices on spending".

From BBC