PoliticsJuly 7, 2026
parliamentarian
/ˌpɑːrləˌmɛnˈtɛəriən/
Definition
An unelected official who serves as the chief advisor to a legislative body on the interpretation and application of its procedural rules.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'parliament' and the Anglo-French 'parler' (to speak), originally referring to a consultation or discussion. The suffix '-arian' was added to denote a person associated with the practice of parliamentary procedure.
In the news
In the article, the Senate parliamentarian is mentioned as the authority who determines whether specific legislation meets the strict procedural requirements needed to qualify for the budget reconciliation process.
Speaker Johnson says House will pass Trump’s voter ID bill through arduous process after GOP revolt
Read the full article ↗CNN