woolsack
Definition
- Noun:
- A sack of wool: Historically, a large bag or bale used for transporting or storing wool.
- The official seat of the Lord Chancellor: In the British House of Lords, the "woolsack" is a large, wool-stuffed cushion or seat on which the Lord Chancellor (or the presiding officer) sits. It symbolizes the historical importance of the wool trade to England's economy.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The merchant loaded several woolsacks onto the cart for transport. (A literal sack filled with wool for trade.)
- The Lord Chancellor took his place on the woolsack to begin the debate. (The ceremonial seat in the House of Lords.)
Advanced Usage
"to take the woolsack": To assume the position of Lord Chancellor or to preside over the House of Lords.
- After the election, she took the woolsack as the new Lord Chancellor. (She began her duties as the presiding officer.)
"the woolsack" as a metonym: Used to refer to the office or authority of the Lord Chancellor.
- The woolsack carries great symbolic weight in British parliamentary tradition. (The seat represents the authority of the presiding officer.)
Variants and Related Words
Wool (n): the soft, curly hair of sheep, used for making textiles.
- The sweater is made from fine wool. (A natural fibre from sheep.)
Sack (n): a large bag made of strong material, used for storing or transporting goods.
- He carried a sack of potatoes. (A bag for bulk items.)
Synonyms
- Cushion: a soft pad or seat.
- Throne: a ceremonial seat of authority (though less specific).
Related Idioms
"Sit on the woolsack": To preside over the House of Lords or to hold the office of Lord Chancellor.
- The judge sat on the woolsack and called the session to order. (He acted as the presiding officer.)
"The woolsack of office": A poetic or formal reference to the responsibilities of the Lord Chancellor.
- He bore the woolsack of office with dignity. (He carried out the duties of the role.)