n. 1. A formal assembly of representatives, as of various nations, to discuss problems. 2. The national legislative body of a nation, especially a republic. 3. Congress a. The national legislative body of the United States, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. b. The two-year session of this legislature between elections of the House of Representatives. 4. a. The act of coming together or meeting. b. A single meeting, as of a political party or other group. 5. Sexual intercourse. [Middle English congresse, body of attendants, from Latin congressus, meeting, from past participle of congredī, to meet : com-, com- + gradī, to go; see ghredh- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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