What does "legislature" mean?

1. (law-making body) the official group of people who have the power to make, change, or remove laws for a country or state. 2. (the building) the building where the law-making group meets to work.

How do you use "legislature"?

Often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to a specific body. Commonly used in Canada and some US states to refer to the building itself.

legislature

US //ˈɫɛdʒəˌsɫeɪtʃɝ// UK //lˈɛdʒɪslətʃɐ// leg·is·la·ture

1 law-making body (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Law

the official group of people who have the power to make, change, or remove laws for a country or state.

A governmental body or deliberative assembly vested with the power to make, amend, and repeal laws.

Example

The state legislature voted to increase funding for public schools next year.

Example

The national legislature debated the proposed environmental regulations for several weeks before finally reaching a compromise.

Usage

Often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to a specific body.

Teacher's tip

While 'parliament' or 'congress' are specific types, 'legislature' is the general term for any such body.
2 the building (n.)
C1 Advanced American English Formal

the building where the law-making group meets to work.

The physical building or complex that houses a legislative body.

Example

A large crowd gathered outside the legislature to protest the new tax.

Example

The historic legislature building is famous for its grand dome and neoclassical architecture.

Usage

Commonly used in Canada and some US states to refer to the building itself.

Teacher's tip

In many dialects, speakers prefer 'parliament' or 'the capitol' for the building; this use is more regional.
- parliament house
- capitol

Origin

1676, from stem of legislator + -ure, cognate with French législature.