joint resolution

American  

noun

1. a resolution adopted by both branches of a bicameral legislative assembly and requiring the signature of the chief executive to become law.

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joint resolution British  

noun

1. a resolution passed by both houses of a bicameral legislature, signed by the chief executive and legally binding

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joint resolution Cultural  

1. A measure approved by both houses of the United States Congress and signed by the president. Similar to an act of Congress, the joint resolution is used to approve or initiate foreign policy actions, to grant a single appropriations proposal, and to propose amendments to the Constitution.

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Etymology

Origin of joint resolution

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

It wasn’t until 1941, however, that the holiday’s date was codified in law, when Franklin Roosevelt signed a joint resolution of Congress mandating its celebration on the fourth Thursday of November.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 25, 2025

Both chambers of Congress would need to pass a joint resolution to undo it.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 19, 2025

Featuring nine pieces of legislation and a joint resolution, the package appears impressive at a glance; there are new rules governing energy costs, power-transmission incentives, and protection against grid attacks.

From Slate • Apr. 27, 2023

A Senate subcommittee recently approved a joint resolution that would let voters decide whether the comptroller general should continue as an elected position or be appointed by the governor.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 23, 2023

On July 23, the two houses adopted a preamble and joint resolution admitting Tennessee to her former relations to the Union.

From The Life of Lyman Trumbull by White, Horace