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Synonyms

local government

American  

noun

  1. the administration of the civic affairs of a city, town, or district by its inhabitants rather than by the state or country at large.

  2. the governing body of a town or district.


local government British  

noun

  1. government of the affairs of counties, towns, etc, by locally elected political bodies

  2. the US equivalent of local authority

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of local government

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Groups, often regardless of political affiliation, are fighting back in town council meetings and local government sessions where most of these projects are approved.

From Salon • Jun. 12, 2026

The latest unrest comes as political parties gear up for local government elections in November.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

Cosla resources spokesman Ricky Bell said the report "quite rightly" expresses grave concern for local government finance over the medium term.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Opponents warn the proposal would decimate funding for essential services and reduce local government fiscal autonomy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

Enfolded in them were mountains, and a river, and enough villages to make him a local government unto himself.

From "Everything Sad Is Untrue" by Daniel Nayeri

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