Council

Etymology

Middle English counceil, from Anglo-French cunseil, cuncile, from Latin concilium, from com- + calare to call

• Date: 12th century

Definitions

• 1 : an assembly or meeting for consultation, advice, or discussion
• 2 : a group elected or appointed as an advisory or legislative body
• 3 a : a usually administrative body

b : an executive body whose members are equal in power and authority

c : a governing body of delegates from local units of a federation

• 4 : deliberation in a council
• 5 a : a federation of or a central body uniting a group of organizations

b : a local chapter of an organization c : club, society

Description

A council is a type of committee that leads or governs. In British culture, a municipality is often referred to as a council.

A town council is a democratically elected form of government for small municipalities or civil parishes. A council may serve as both the representative and executive branch.

Depending upon local laws and regulations, town councils usually self-organize and elect a leader to set the agenda of their governing body. This leader may be granted a title such as chairman, mayor, or president.