conscript fathers

American  

plural noun

1. the senators of ancient Rome.

2. any legislators.

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conscript fathers British  

plural noun

1. literary august legislators, esp Roman senators

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Etymology

Origin of conscript fathers

First recorded in 1525–35

Example Sentences

A college boy recited an address "to the conscript fathers."

From Pushing to the Front by Marden, Orison Swett

They claim to take with them the right to condemn as a felon the man who may utter and maintain the Declaration of Independence, or the opinions of the conscript fathers of the Republic.

From Slavery: What it was, what it has done, what it intends to do Speech of Hon. Cydnor B. Tompkins, of Ohio by Tompkins, Cydnor Bailey

Does the crowd that surrounds my person offend you," said he, "Aulus Cornelius, and you, conscript fathers?

From The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 by Livius, Titus

Why do ye hesitate, Romans, and you, conscript fathers, to take up arms under the direction of the gods?

From The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 by Livius, Titus

Can I be surprised," says he, "if your authority is of little weight, conscript fathers? yourselves are disparaging it.

From The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 by Livius, Titus