noun

council

KOWN-suhl/ˈkaʊnsl/

A group assembled to advise or govern.

The council discusses an issue as members sit around a table.

Modern civic council three members deliberate around table with blank folders, attentive and equal participants.

Etymology

councilLatinmeeting, gathering of people

Latin concilium meant a gathering of people. Early English council referred especially to church assemblies regulating doctrine and discipline, before serving more broadly for deliberating or governing bodies.

In context

IIEA3:12

the european financial stability fund which was decided upon by the council of ministers on the 7th of june 2010

Paul Gallagher SC on "A Referendum for the ESM?"

More examples

The city council approves funding for a new library.
Our student council suggests changes to the school lunch menu.
Representatives from several tribal councils attend the conference.

Forms

council · councils

councilor noun — A member of an official council.

Similar words

committee: Usually handles a specific task within a larger organization.
board: Typically oversees an organization rather than governing a community.
assembly: Emphasizes people gathered together, not necessarily an ongoing governing body.