executive session

noun

, Government.

1. a session, generally closed to the public, of a legislative body or its leaders.

executive session

noun

1. a session of the Senate for the discussion of executive business, such as the ratification of treaties: formerly held in secret

Word History and Origins

Origin of executive session¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Elsie had left this question to Captain Eri for settlement, and the trio and Mrs. Snow went into executive session immediately.

From Project Gutenberg

The motion for an executive session was lost,—Yeas 15, Nays 22.

From Project Gutenberg

He made the charge also that Tipton had been guilty of divulging the vote on the treaty, taken in executive session.

From Project Gutenberg

The Senate is so open when it is engaged on legislative work; but it is closed to the public when engaged in executive session.

From Project Gutenberg

I would rather do that in executive session—that one piece of testimony.

From Project Gutenberg