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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

senator

SEHN-uh-tuh
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Senator (noun) means a member of a senate, usually an elected legislator. Example: “The senator gave a lengthy speech on tax reform.”

noun
1
A member of a senate, usually an elected legislator.
"The senator gave a lengthy speech on tax reform."
"The senator met with local farmers to hear their concerns."
"Each senator voted on the proposal after a long debate."

How to use senator

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA person who serves as a member of a senate.

Common pairings
elected senator state senator US senator
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Word forms

Plural
senators
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ gave a lengthy speech on tax reform.

Etymology

From Latin senātor, from senex, "old" — an "elder" in the original Roman sense.

Origin: Latin

legislator lawmaker elected representative statesman politician member of the senate

Related words

Rhymes for senator

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Frequently asked questions

What does “senator” mean?
The word “senator” means a member of a senate, usually an elected legislator. In plain terms, a person who serves as a member of a senate.
How do you pronounce “senator”?
“Senator” is pronounced SEHN-uh-tuh (/ˈsɛn.ə.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “senator” in a sentence?
Here is “senator” used in a sentence: “The senator gave a lengthy speech on tax reform.”
What part of speech is “senator”?
“Senator” is a noun.
Where does the word “senator” come from?
The word “senator” comes from Latin. From Latin senātor, from senex, "old" — an "elder" in the original Roman sense.
Is “senator” a common word?
“Senator” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a senator and a representative?
In many two-chamber legislatures, senators sit in the upper house and representatives in the lower. Senators often serve larger areas, such as a whole state or region, with longer terms, while representatives serve smaller districts for shorter terms. Both make laws, but the senate is usually the smaller, more senior chamber.
What does a senator do?
A senator is an elected lawmaker who debates, drafts, and votes on legislation in a senate. They represent the people of their state, region, or district, scrutinize government actions, sit on committees, and often confirm senior appointments. In short, a senator helps shape national laws and holds the government to account.
How does someone become a senator?
In most countries a senator is elected by voters, though some senates include appointed or hereditary members. Candidates usually must meet minimum requirements for age, citizenship, and residency, then win a public vote. Terms and exact rules vary widely from one nation to another, but election is the most common route.

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