Black Rod

American  

noun

1. (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.

2. a similar official in British colonial and Commonwealth legislatures.

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Black Rod British  

noun

1. (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

2. a similar officer in any of certain other legislatures

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Etymology

Origin of Black Rod

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

The title Black Rod comes from the ebony staff, topped with a golden lion, carried by the holder.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

He or she then has to knock three times on the door with the rod to gain entry, before it is opened and MPs follow Black Rod back to the upper chamber.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

Who is Black Rod and what do they do in Parliament?

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

Black Rod is one of the most senior officers in the House of Lords, external, and participates in major ceremonial events in the Palace of Westminster.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2024

To them entered as far as the Bar of the House, on summons, some of the Commons, heralded by Black Rod and led by the Speaker.

From England by Fox, Frank, Sir