Black Rod
Americannoun
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(in England) an official of the Order of the Garter and chief ceremonial usher of the House of Lords: so called from the rod carried as the symbol of office.
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a similar official in British colonial and Commonwealth legislatures.
noun
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(in Britain) an officer of the House of Lords and of the Order of the Garter, whose main duty is summoning the Commons at the opening and proroguing of Parliament
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a similar officer in any of certain other legislatures
Etymology
Origin of Black Rod
First recorded in 1625–35
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A parliamentary official known as Black Rod will have the door of the lower chamber House of Commons slammed in their face, a tradition that symbolises parliament's independence from the monarchy.
From Barron's ● May 13, 2026
Black Rod plays a key role in the State Opening of Parliament, which takes place on Wednesday 17 July.
From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2024
Black Rod also plays a key role in the selection of the House of Commons Speaker.
From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2024
Before entering the House of Commons, Black Rod has the door shut in their face.
From BBC ● Jul. 16, 2024
Sir Charles Dalton, Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, was sent with a message from the King commanding the attendance of the Commons.
From A History of the Four Georges, Volume I by Justin McCarthy
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