# councilman

/ˈkaʊnsəɫmən/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/councilman
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a person who is a member of a local government group. They help make decisions and laws for a city or town.

For teachers: a male member of a local administrative body or municipal assembly. Often used in North American contexts to refer to an elected representative in city government.

## Examples

- The councilman voted against the new park tax.
- After the heavy storm, the local councilman visited the flooded streets to talk with concerned residents about repairs.
- The councilman proposed an amendment to the zoning laws, arguing that the city needed more affordable housing to support its growing workforce.

## Usage notes

- The gender-neutral alternative 'councilmember' or 'councilor' is increasingly common in official contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.