executive session

American  

noun

Government.

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

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executive session British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of executive session

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Public records show city council members met last month in executive session with Scott Baumgartner, the city’s private attorney, to discuss a “draft remediation agreement,” but provided no further details.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 3, 2024

The Arizona Board of Regents, which oversees Arizona and Arizona State, will hold a closed executive session to look at possible legal advice and discussion regarding university athletics.

From Washington Times • Aug. 3, 2023

The Arizona Board of Regents, which controls both Arizona and fellow Pac-12 school Arizona State, met later Tuesday and quickly went into executive session behind closed doors.

From Washington Times • Aug. 2, 2023

Before the vote, the committee met in an executive session, outside public view.

From New York Times • May 25, 2023

"When does our Society go into executive session?" asked Edith, with a significant smile; "my committee wishes to report progress."

From The Bachelors A Novel by Orcutt, William Dana