# legislature

/ˈɫɛdʒəˌsɫeɪtʃɝ/ (US) · /lˈɛdʒɪslətʃɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/legislature
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. law-making body

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

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

Teaching tip: While 'parliament' or 'congress' are specific types, 'legislature' is the general term for any such body.

### 2. the building

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Formal

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

For teachers: The physical building or complex that houses a legislative body.

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

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

## Examples

- The legislature voted to pass the new environmental law.
- The proposed tax reform must be approved by the state legislature before it can take effect next year.
- In a bicameral system, the legislature is divided into two separate houses, each providing a check on the other's power to ensure more deliberate lawmaking.

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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.