Definition

1. Noun:
   • A formal system of rules for conducting meetings and debates: "Parliamentary procedure" refers to a codified set of regulations that govern how an assembly, such as a legislature, committee, or club, makes decisions, discusses topics, and conducts its business in an orderly, fair, and efficient manner.

Usage

• Noun:
  • This term is used to describe the established protocol for meetings. It ensures that discussions are structured, all members have an opportunity to speak, and decisions are made according to agreed-upon rules.
  • It is often associated with formal organizations, legislative bodies, and deliberative assemblies.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The club's secretary is well-versed in parliamentary procedure to ensure all meetings run smoothly.
  • According to standard parliamentary procedure, a motion must be seconded before it can be debated.
  • The chairperson invoked parliamentary procedure to call the unruly meeting to order.

Advanced Usage

• "To raise a point of order": A request for the chair to enforce the rules of parliamentary procedure.

  • The delegate raised a point of order, claiming the speaker had exceeded their allotted time.

• "To table a motion": To postpone discussion on a proposal, a specific action within parliamentary procedure.

  • They voted to table the motion until the next meeting.

Variants and Related Words

• Parliamentary law (n): A synonym for parliamentary procedure, emphasizing its legal or rule-based nature.

  • The organization's bylaws require it to operate under recognized parliamentary law.

• Rules of order (n): Another common term for the specific rules comprising parliamentary procedure.

  • The assembly adopted *Robert's Rules of Order as its official rules of order.*

Synonyms

• Meeting protocol: The formal rules for conducting a meeting.
• Deliberative process: The structured method of discussion and decision-making.

Related Phrases

• Call to order: The formal declaration that a meeting has begun according to procedure.

  • The president called the meeting to order at 7 PM sharp.

• Out of order: Not in compliance with the established rules of procedure.

  • The chair ruled the comment was out of order.

Related Idioms

• To follow the book: To adhere strictly to the rules (often referring to a specific manual of parliamentary procedure).
  • The new chair follows the book on every point of parliamentary procedure.

Noun

1. a body of rules followed by an assembly